Times of Oman - October 20, 2016

THURSDAY October 20, 2016 18 Muharram 1438 AH

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HM RECEIVES THANKS

FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from President Pranab Mukherjee of India in reply to His Majesty’s congratulatory cable on the occasion of his country’s 70th Independence Anniversary. In his cable, President Mukherjee expressed his utmost thanks and appreciation for His Majesty’s congratulations. >A3

On the occasion of the 6th National Day, 1976

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ Our hearts are filled with pride and humility - pride in the victories our Omani people have achieved, and humility in the knowledge that it is God’s blessing and protection which has made these victories possible.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 199 | 36 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

D H O FA R

A E R O B AT I C D I S P L AY

2 Omanis arrested for boy’s abduction

Red Arrows to perform in Sultanate

Staff Reporter

REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: One of the world’s premier aerobatic display teams, the Red Arrows of the Royal Air Force, will perform in Oman on November 20.

Currently, the Red Arrows are in a two-month major tour with more than 20 displays and a series of flypasts across the AsiaPacific and Middle East regions.

According to the team, the tour will see the Red Arrows perform in Oman in November and China for the first time ever. >A6 TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Ooredoo’s CEO quits

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Ooredoo’s Chief Executive Officer Greg Young has resigned from the post. >A2

REGION

Battle for Mosul

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Fighting has entered the third day as coalition forces advance. >A7

MARKET

Market makers

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MSM needs market makers for an active secondary market. >B1

WALL OF SILENCE ON NOC

Majority of companies

MUSCAT: Two nationals were arrested by Dhofar police officials on charges of kidnapping a boy and allegedly abusing him sexually.

According to an official from the Royal Oman Police (ROP), the father of the missing boy had lodged a case with the police. However, the missing boy returned home on the same day in the evening.

“When the boy returned home, he told his family members that he was kidnapped by two nationals driving a SUV. The police initiated a probe into the incident and arrested the culprits. The case has been transferred to the public prosecution,” the police official added.

contacted on NOC issue failed to respond while others were wary in their reply

Staff Reporters MUSCAT: It’s the issue bosses don’t want to talk about, whether they give No Objection Certificates (NOC) to expat workers leaving their companies after successfully completing their first two-year contracts.

After receiving complaints from workers who say they are routinely being denied NOCs for no reason, Times of Oman contacted 100 companies across the Sultanate of Oman. >A4

Music teacher in love with Oman and its people

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

OMAN TELECOM SERVICE PROVIDER

Chief executive officer of Ooredoo Oman resigns Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Ooredoo’s Chief Executive Officer Greg Young has resigned from the post, according to the telecom service provider.

In a statement to the Muscat Securities Market, the Board of Directors of Ooredoo, the Omani Qatari Telecommunications Company, said that Young has resigned from the Company effective from Tuesday. “The Board has accepted his resignation and has announced that Jorgen Latte, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, will serve as the Acting Chief Executive Officer for an

Former Ooredoo’s Chief Executive Officer Greg Young

interim period, until the Board appoints a new Chief Executive Officer,” the statement added. According to a report in March this year, Ooredoo Oman has reported

net profit of OMR24.9 million for the first half of 2016 as compared with OMR22.2 million in the same period of 2015, marking an increase of 12.2 per cent.

N E T W O R K I N G P L AT F O R M

EduTraC expo to end today Times News Service MUSCAT: EduTraC Oman, Higher education, training & job opportunities expo will conclude today.

The three-day exhibition being held at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre, provided a platform for leading local and foreign universities plus training institutions to network with students, parents and working executives interested in education and training at all levels.

Key pillars Trevor McCartney, General Manager of OCEC said: “EduTraC Oman is an important event for the Sultanate and one that we are particularly proud to host as education and training and human resources are key pillars of Oman’s strategy for economic development and diversification.”

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

Share your world with us on Instagram

29,449 register on Wednesday for campaign

To include their names in His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s portrait for the 46th National Day, 29,449 people registered yesterday.

On Facebook, 58,000 people viewed it while the website recorded 5,300 page views.

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Music teacher’s tunes capture Omani essence Lisa Morgan’s ‘Oman is home to me’, uses a blend of Omani melody and instruments. It has even recorded sounds

INDIA

< FROM

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HM’s cable

TRIBUTE: The song includes twenty two students from the American British Academy’s multicultural choir.

from the desert

KHADIJA ALZADJALI

He stressed his keenness to enhance the existing relations between the two friendly countries, wishing His Majesty good health and happiness.-ONA HEILAN AROMA

RAFO evacuates patient from Chinese vessel off Ras Al Hadd MUSCAT: Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) in cooperation with the Marine Security Centre conducted a medical evacuation of a patient from a Chinese commercial vessel ‘Heilan Aroma’ located 65 nautical miles off the coast of Ras Al Hadd.

A helicopter affiliated to the RAFO transported the patient to Khoula Hospital for treatment.— ONA

khadija@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Lisa Morgan who moved to Oman six years ago from Bahrain is completely hypnotised by the country’s beauty and people. And a song made by her about Oman, ‘Oman is home to me’, has received 1,818 views on Youtube in four days.

While away on holiday in Spain, Morgan found herself in deep thought, “Why isn’t there a song in English that sings about this beautiful country?” Three years later, it finally became a reality.

Creating a song that celebrated commonality is extremely important to her. Morgan spent time studying Omani and Arabic music including their poetic lyrics.

“Every song is about how much they love Oman, and His Majesty. That’s why we are all here,” Morgan added. Morgan has been extremely perceptive during her time here.

Her ‘Oman is home to me’, uses a blend of Omani melody, instruments and even recorded sounds from the desert. There are four lo-

cal Omani musicians each playing an instrument: percussions, oud, guitar and the violin.

Twenty-two students The song includes twenty-two students from the American British Academy’s multicultural choir, all whom have different nationalities. Morgan said it became a community project.

“I wanted to know how the song made Omanis feel,” Morgan said.

“It was really important that I

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got the story right and that I represented Omanis well. The reactions from Omanis have been very emotional. They’ve said things like ‘I can’t believe a western woman has expressed everything we feel about our country’. That means so much to me.”

Although the song itself is complete, Morgan believes that producing a video to go along with the music would make it even more powerful. “My dream is to film a beautiful music video that reflects the scenery of the pictures painted in the song,” she said.

“Oman is just such a beautiful country. It would make such a great promotional piece for the country,” Morgan added. “Oman is the jewel of the Khaleej (Gulf Cooperation Council),” Morgan who is originally from Sydney, Australia, said. But the highest of honors would be presenting it to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Morgan believes that her work is the epitome of all that Oman is.

“My dream above everything would be to present it to His Majesty the Sultan as gift,” she said.

“So he could see how beautifully his people are collaborating musically, and that they have in common their love for this country.”

FROM OCTOBER 30

Oman Air to operate daily flights to Paris Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Muscat and Paris will be connected by daily flights from October 30 this year, Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate, said.

“As the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman we are delighted to be boosting frequencies from five per week to daily flights between Muscat and Paris Charles De Gaulle,” Abdulrahman Al Busaidy, Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer of Oman Air, said.

Oman Air first launched flights from Muscat to Paris in 2009.

Its flights have grown in demand

and increased from four to five flights per week and now to the daily service.

The airline will be operating a mix of 787 and 788 aircraft on the route to give our passengers maximum comfort during the flight.

“I would like to thank our trade partners, travel agencies, sales agents and the media, who have all been incredibly supportive and contributed to this growing demand. They have fully endorsed our award winning product and our unique onboard service and hospitality, which help to differentiate Oman Air from the competition,” he added.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

OMAN DILEMMA ON NOC

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Companies in Oman circumspect on NOC issue to expats

Those contacted included banks and financial services, hotel chains and tourism services, retailers, multinational industrial firms, construction companies, airlines, hospitals, petroleum companies, communication services, automotive brands and private schools.

Of those 100 organisations, 60 companies failed to respond to the question: “Assuming there are no disciplinary factors involved, do you give expat employees a No Objection Certificate on completion of their first two-year contract? If yes, why? If no, why not?”

A further nine companies admitted they don’t while 31 said they do.

Ones that does is Al Turki Enterprises. Devak Khimji, Executive Director, told Times of Oman, “Yes we do give NOCs, we have given it to several people unless they are found adversely affecting our company during their working tenure.”

Wilson V George, Board of Directors’ Chairman of Indian Schools in the Sultanate also said his company granted NOCs. He said: ““We do not have a policy ‘to reject NOC’ request. Our employee turnover is very low and such requests rarely come up. In the last two years we have had two requests for NOCs and we provided them. Those employees were with us for more than five years.”

And one government-owned company said, “We don’t want to stop our employees from growing, so we give NOCs to them at the end

NOC response

Number of companies contacted: 100

NO to NOC

YES to NOC

9

31

14

Banks and finance

21

Retail and leisure

10

Education and health

41

Industries

5

Travel and tourism

9

Others

100

Refused to comment

60

of their contract periods. No NOC request has come to us by an expat in the middle of their working period yet, but if that comes, we will give it too.”

A spokesperson of the Petroleum Development of Oman (PDO) also said, “Yes we give NOCs to our expatriates employees at the end of their contract. However, this privilege is exclusively granted to good leavers and done after collaboration with the line and function.”

However, companies happy to confirm they will give NOCs to workers are in the minority, and trade representatives still backing the scheme.

“I’m actually with the ones who do not give the NOCs, because if you think about it, you have trained this employee and taught him essential skills, but in the end

CHARITY DRIVE

Bank Nizwa joins Dar Al Atta’a for World Food Day Staff Reporter MUSCAT: To commemorate World Food Day, Bank Nizwa recently partnered with Dar Al Atta’a, one of Oman’s largest nonprofit organisations, in an initiative to distribute food and essential supplies to more than 500 underprivileged families across the Sultanate.

Inspired by the values of its Masoliyati programme, the bank’s employees joined other volunteers from the public and private sector to collect nonperishable items, including rice, flour, milk, coffee, tea, sugar, wheat, oil and canned foods.

Dr Ashraf Al Nabhani, said, “We have been dedicated to giving back to local communities in any way we can, a conviction that directly inspired our partnership with Dar Al Atta’a.

Together, we implemented an integrated approach that has brought benefits to dozens of families and reaffirmed Masoliyati’s promise to enriching local communities through social contributions.”

Through Masoliyati, Bank Nizwa’s staff has embraced opportunities to champion charitable initiatives across the Sultanate.

Till date, the programme has successfully launched a number of high-impact projects, including its annual Iftar Sa’em outreach programme organised every Ramadan, coastal beach clean-ups designed to preserve

The ordeal of an expat who was denied NOC Times News Service MUSCAT: I joined a communications company in Muscat almost four years ago, initially on a two-year contract. I signed a second two-year contract after two years.

My employment ended recently by mutual consent after I resigned. I had a couple of job offers with other companies in Muscat, but my company refused to give me a NOC (No Objection Certificate), despite the fact that I had completed my initial two-year contract with them.

First, the company told me they wouldn’t give me a NOC, because it was ‘company policy.’ When I pushed them further, they said it was for

the employee would decide to resign and go to a competitor,” said Mohammad Al Badi, Economic Committee Member at the Majlis Al Shura.

“Before the NOC rule came in place to regulate the workforce, we had an employee that we trained well and he knows our prices. After

he resigned and went to another company, they started to compete with us; because now they know our prices from him,” he added.

Said bin Nasser Al Saadi, the advisor to the Minister for Manpower, recently told Times of Oman that the NOC scheme was under review, especially after the

who have completed their contracts.

I have heard of other expats who have had the same problem as me and can’t get NOCs. One of them, who worked in civil engineering, had to leave Oman after three years but has now got a job in Abu Dhabi. It was the company who ended his contract but they still wouldn’t give him a NOC. It seems to me that companies are coming up with excuses not to give a NOC to expat staff, even if they have completed contracts. The NOC system, as it was set up, is being abused by employers and needs to be urgently looked at.

We need to follow Qatar’s lead and scrap the whole NOC/release system.

UAE and Qatar moved to scrap similar schemes.

OCCI member Ahmed Al Hooti said NOCs should only be issued case by case.

“Omani way (policies) is quite different from other countries.

We have a good number of expat employees who are not trained or

Traffic expo focuses on children’s safety Royal Oman Police on the second day of the fifth Traffic Safety Expo also disseminated information on new

Dr Ashraf Al Nabhan

Since its inception in 2014, Bank Nizwa’s Masoliyati programme has successfully served as a volunteering platform founded under the theme of ‘Responsibility’

Oman’s picturesque coastline, and blood donation drives that have provided blood banks in the Sultanate with urgently needed plasma.

safety methods

Staff reporter MUSCAT: Hundreds more people attended and checked out the latest innovations in road safety and technology at the fifth Traffic Safety Expo, as the three day event entered its second day on October 19.

Besides the innovations, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) also disseminated information on new safety methods and techniques and displayed many of their initiatives in road safety, drug abuse, and children’s safety.

Apart from the above, the ROP Hospital and the Traffic Safety Institute also offered free first aid courses to all visitors.

Free medical checkups, nutrition advice, and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) courses were offered to those visiting the expo.

The fifth edition comes high in the heels of the continuous and active campaign against road ac-

PA R T N E R S H I P W I T H O C A

SAVING THE YOUTH: This year’s Traffic Safety Expo is focusing more on the education of children, both on and off the road.

cidents by the ROP and private organizations.

The exhibition is featuring 59 private companies and 27 sponsors from the oil and gas, automotive, banking, traffic equipment, training, and construction sectors, 26 ministries and government bodies, five departments of the ROP, 6 wilayats, and 10 non-government organisations, taking up space of 16,000 square meters.

This year’s Traffic Safety Expo is focusing more on the education of children, both on and off the road.

Oman Expo organiser Melissa Daleja expects the exhibition to attract more than 60,000 visitors

within just three days. Companies have set up attractions for children, as well as designated areas, especially meant for child interaction.

“The initiative of the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is to focus on road safety,” Daleja said. “Right now, they are encouraging more children to be a part of the awareness campaign. This is why they [ROP] are encouraging schools to take part in the exhibition.”

Three different schools will carry out a number of performances to express the importance of following the street laws, street signs and signals.

In addition to the education and entertainment elements, there will be a raffle draw with prizes that range from mobile phones to cars.

Ebrahim Taher, exhibition manager, Traffic Safety Expo, says “We are glad to manage Traffic Safety Expo for the second time this year, as this event is in line with our goal and strategy to support corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, especially the ROP’s continuous road safety awareness campaign.”

The exhibition doors will be open from 8.30am to 1.30 pm and from 4.00pm to 9.00pm every day.

G E N E R AT I O N Y T R AV E L L E R S

City Centre malls join hands for breast cancer awareness Times News Service MUSCAT: Two of Majid Al Futtaim’s shopping destinations in the Sultanate—City Centre Muscat, and City Centre Qurum— joined hands with the Oman Cancer Association (OCA) in its mission to empower people and spread awareness about breast cancer.

City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum are hosting a comprehensive range of events from October 18 until November 1.

This initiative underlines City Centre mall’s sustainability vision of developing prosperous communities that promote wellbeing and engagement, while creating great moments for everyone, every day. Breast cancer is a grow-

‘legal reasons’ and that they would lose a visa clearance for my position if they gave me a release. I’m not even sure if that is true.

I was really upset. I had been with the same company for almost four years and had always been very loyal to them.

I understand that companies don’t want to invest in expat staff only to see them leave after a few months and go to a rival company but in my view, if you have finished the initial two-year contract, then you should be allowed to leave and move around freely. In my case, I felt I had more than repaid the company for their investment in me.

Companies should be obligated to give a NOC to staff

qualified in Oman. The problem here is that employees leave their jobs to set up their businesses, and then they want to compete with their previous sponsors. That is one of the reasons companies don’t want to issue NOC,” he told Times of Oman. “But I think companies should give NOC if the employees want to switch jobs and not to set up their business.”

Out of the three hotels that responded to our survey, only one said that they give NOCs upon the completion of two years.

When asked why they don’t give NOCs prior to the two years ending, they said: “We usually end up losing our clearance. When we lose one expat, we would like to replace them; however it’s very hard getting a clearance.”

Deepa Sudhir, a legal advisor in Muscat, said that NOC remains at the sole discretion of the employer.

“He can say yes and no. The employee doesn’t stand a chance to question it in the court if he is denied,” the lawyer said.

However, when asked whether a clause to provide NOC for those who have completed two-year job contract successfully should not be denied NOC, she said that she cannot comment.

Mohammed Al Farji, a trade unionist, said that NOC should stay, however, those who complete the two-year job contract successfully should not be stopped in changing companies only because he doesn’t have a NOC.

PREVENTION: City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum are hosting a comprehensive range of events from October 18 until November 1.

ing health problem worldwide, the second most common malignancy, and the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. In Oman, it is the most common cancer in females, and has been reported to effect much younger

women in recent years.

“City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum are very proud to be a supporter of the Oman Cancer Association Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign,” said Husam Al Mandhari, senior mall manager, City Centre Muscat.

“It is through this widespread campaign that women are able to educate themselves and be made aware that early detection and treatment saves lives.”

On this note, City Centre Qurum will turn pink at night for the whole month of October to show support for breast cancer awareness, lighting up with a stunning illumination.

The hope is that the pink lights serve as a reminder of the importance of early detection.

SQU professor’s research paper wins excellence certificate Staff Reporter MUSCAT: A professor from the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has received a Citation of Excellence Certificate 2016 from Emerald Publishing for his paper published in the Tourism Management Journal.

Dr Khaldoon Nusair’s paper “Generation Y Travellers’ Commitment to Online Social Networking Websites,” has been selected as a winning paper in 2016.

As many as 150 worldwide publications in the areas of Business Management, Finance, Accounting, Economics and Marketing, qualified for the prestigious Emerald Citations of Excellence award for 2016 and his paper was one of the winners.

Dr Khaldoon Nusair

Each year, Emerald Group Publishing awards certificates to highly cited papers relating to the areas of Business Management, Finance, Accounting, Economics and Marketing—subjects in which Emerald itself has proudly published journals for nearly 50 years.

Nusair, along with three co-

authors, has been recognised by Emerald Group Publishing as the author of one of the most highly cited and highly influential papers published in 2013 related to the aforementioned disciplines.

He is currently an Associate Professor and Head of Marketing at the College of Economics and Political Science at SQU. Prior to joining SQU, Nusair was an associate professor of Hospitality Marketing at the University of Central Florida, Orlando, United States from 2007 to 2014. He has taught a number of marketing courses at the bachelors, masters, and doctoral levels and is the author of one book and more than 75 refereed papers in leading academic journals and proceedings of international conferences.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

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Oman needs to slash spending by 35%: IMF Actual oil prices for Oman Crude in 2016 remained significantly lower than the budgeted price, due to which the projected deficit for 2016 surpassed in just first 7 months

LOWER REVENUES: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations’ revenue from hydrocarbons is expected to remain $400 billion lower in 2016. – Supplied picture

To address the mounting deficit, Oman should take austerity steps targeting disposable income and IMF expects the country to adopt measures to rein in public sector wage bill

SYED HAITHAM HASAN

haitham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman needs to slash spending by nearly 35 per cent to balance its fiscal budgets in 2016, according to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF’s) latest regional outlook.

To address the mounting deficit, the government should take fiscal austerity steps targeting disposable income and IMF expects Oman to adopt measures to rein in the public sector wage bill through hiring freezes and streamlining benefits.

Actual oil prices for Oman Crude in 2016 remained significantly lower than the budgeted price, due to which the projected deficit for 2016 surpassed in just the first seven months. Analysts said the government will take major steps in the coming months to contain the soaring deficit.

“Individuals in Oman must brace for a possible increase in austerity measures in the coming months. Higher fuel prices, subsidy cuts in electricity and water, taxes, higher visa processing fees, recruitment freezes and salary

cuts can all be potentially implemented to rationalise government spending and create income,” explained a financial expert at a leading financial advisory firm in Oman.

Contracts dry up “Industries, which were mainly dependent on government contracts, have already faced the axe with the pool of contracts drying up. This situation is likely to continue in 2017 and can spread to crisis insulated sectors, such as the retail industry and banking, where jobs are likely to be affected,” he added.

According to Oliver Cornock, managing editor at the Oxford Business Group, subsidy cuts, along with corporate tax increases will have a direct effect on individuals. “Some subsidies have already been cut, while reductions in others are also now being explored. Value Added Tax (VAT) is also being introduced across the GCC, while the tax rate for companies in Oman is being increased from 12 per cent to 15 per cent. In the short term this will perhaps

impact companies’ decisions as to whether to hire new staff or reduce the payroll. This uncertainty over future income understandably impacts consumer spending,” he said.

Cornock also pointed out that there is a significant hit to liquidity and financing in the market due to the government issuing bonds and borrowing locally.

Abdullah Al Mandhari, chief executive officer of EOR LLC said the problem is in the fragmentation of the society, where the elite are not ready to repudiate luxury consumption and that gives rise to unnecessary expenditure.

“What we need now is to align our needs with the need of the local population instead of spending on lavish projects and ambitious deals. We need to concentrate on lowering this deficit through less spending and higher innovation in every sector, whether affected or not. That is the only way out of this, otherwise the general population will have to face austerity measures, which seems unfair for a few,” he explained.

Another financial expert re-

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mained more optimistic about the future.

“In the short term, there may be issues related to less business volume and business activities, but any further improvement in oil prices above $45 will boost business sentiments. In the long run, we need to increase the sustainable non-oil revenue. Investment and development in sectors, such as Tourism, Fisheries and Mining, will have huge potential to boost the non-oil revenue and create more job opportunities in the long term,” said Kannan Rajagopal, general manager at The Global Omani Investment.

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations’ revenue from hydrocarbons is expected to remain $400 billion lower in 2016, when compared with 2014, according to the IMF report.

Despite the fiscal adjustments made in the past year that included a mix of budget cuts and revenue raising measures, GCC nations are predicted to post a cumulative budget deficit of $765 billion during the 2016 to 2021 period.

C O R P O R AT E R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y

BEACH CLEAN-UP: The PDO volunteers carried out the clean-up campaign with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) and Muscat Municipality teams. -Supplied picture

Oil firms’ volunteers remove 400kg trash from Seeb beach Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Four hundred kilogrammes of rubbish, including bottles, plastic bags, and metal waste were removed by 50 volunteers from Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) with colleagues from other major Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) oil companies from Al Seeb beach.

The PDO volunteers carried out the clean-up campaign with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Affairs (MECA) and Muscat Municipality teams.

“As a good corporate citizen, PDO is committed to protecting, and raising awareness of, the Omani environment and supporting beach clean-up initiatives is part of this fundamental strategic goal of the company,” said PDO External Affairs and Value Creation Director Abdul-Amir Abdul-Hussein Al Ajmi.

“We all need to work together to ensure our wonderful natural environment and coastline is preserved and I thank all the volunteers for their efforts in promoting this noble cause,” he added.

The activity was part of a commitment from all GCC countries which are members of the Regional Clean Sea Organisation (RECSO). RECSO is an oil industry co-

operative organisation based on the concept of “mutual aid” and was officially launched in 1972 by 13 founder members, including PDO, which is the only Omani oil and gas company member.

The organisation was set up as a collective response to major oil pollution incidents and works to achieve the common objective of a “Clean Gulf.”

Other oil companies participating in similar clean-ups beach in their own countries included Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and Qatar Petroleum.

PDO Beach Clean-up Campaign Co-ordinator Hamed Al Haddabi, PDO’s Terminal and Marine Delivery Team Lead, said: “We worked well with our colleagues from MECA and Muscat Municipality and were pleased with what achieved. Seeb beach is one of Oman’s most beautiful beaches and keeping it free of rubbish not only protects its look but also reduces the potential harm to birds and marine species,” Hamed said.

“The clean-up is one of many environmental initiatives taken by PDO which is dedicated to ensuring that all its operations and activities are performed in an environmentally sustainable manner,” he added.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 Ever since the team’s first season in 1965, the Red Arrows have performed on a global scale Squadron Leader David Montenegro, Team Leader of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team and Red 1

OMAN SECURITY BOOST

CELL BUSINESS CENTRE

Agreement signed with Indian firm SUR: To operate the Cell Business Centre of the OMIFCO in Sur College of Applied Sciences, the Ministry of Higher Education yesterday signed cooperation agreement with Oman-India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO) in the field of entrepreneurship.

The agreement comes within the

framework of the partnership between government and private sectors to serve the community, as well as enhancing the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and implementing Saih Al Shamikhat Symposium’s recommendations in developing SMEs and entrepreneurship. -ONA

Al Nassir joins Royal Navy of Oman fleet AL MUSANNAH: At a function the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) celebrated the arrival of “Al Nassir” ship yesterday.

The function was held under the patronage of Maj.Gen Amer bin Salim Al Amri, Commander of the Sultan’s Special Force (SSF).

Present at the ceremony were commanders of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF), military and security units, RNO senior officers and personnel.

The ceremony, which was held at Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, began with the playing of Anthem of Honour to the chief guest.

Then, the chief guest inspected the front column of the Guards of

Honour. He also gave good service and conduct medals to some RNO personnel.

After that, the ship “Al Nassir” anchored at the wharf designated at the base. The commander of the ship then invited the chief guest to board the ship.

He was briefed about the ship during which he viewed its facilities and divisions that are provided with latest advanced marine equipment to enable the ship meet needs of the RNO’s national duty.

The ship will enhance operational capacity and support projects of comprehensive national development. -ONA

INDUCTION: The ship will enhance operational capacity and support projects of comprehensive national development. – ONA

Opportunities in insurance sector The forum discussed the reality of the insurance industry in the Arab world and the requirements for its prosperity

MUSCAT: To strengthen the supervision and control operations of insurance, enhancing cooperation among insurance supervision bodies, and control bodies in the Arab insurance markets, the Sultanate, represented by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) organised a meeting yesterday.

The second regular meeting of the Arab Forum of Insurance Supervision and Control Bodies was held at Al Bustan Palace Hotel in Muscat. The regular meetings of the forum discussed the reality of the insurance industry in the Arab world and the most basic requirements for the prosperity of the industry and the mechanism to strengthen its role in Arab economies.

Abdullah bin Salim Al Salmi, Executive President of CMA delivered a speech in which he stressed the importance of strengthening the bonds of cooperation and enhancing the level of exchange of experiences among the Arab bodies of supervision and control over the insurance business.”

He expressed hope that common links among the Arab countries will help improve the legislation and assess the regulatory and supervisory frameworks of the insurance industry in line with the principles and criteria of the International Association of In-

surance Supervisors (IAIS) and other international and regional organisations.

Hashel bin Sulaiman Al Salhi, Insurance Specialist at CMA gave a presentation on the development of Omani insurance market.

He also highlighted the nature of the legislative structure, legal and supervisory frameworks governing the sector, and the efforts to enhance the economic value of the sector of the insurance industry in the Sultanate.

It is worth mentioning that the Arab Forum of Insurance Supervision and Control Bodies was founded in 2006 in Jordan, as the founding members and the acceding states realised the importance of this forum in enhancing the role of these bodies in the organisation of Arab insurance markets.

It also aimed to develop the insurance industry in these markets through an Arab unified institutional framework to achieve harmony in regulatory and supervisory frameworks in the Arab markets. -ONA

F I A P AWA R D S

Photography exhibition to mark Omani Women’s Day MUSCAT: Thirty-six photographs of 23 photographers from the Sultanate of Oman, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Bahrain, UAE , South Africa, Cyprus, Italy, Luxemburg , the Netherlands, Peru, Slovenia and Sri Lanka will be showcased at an exhibition today. .

The Oman Photography Society of Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre for Culture and Science will be organisng the second international exhibition for female photographers holder of FIAP awards.

The exhibition will be held under the auspices of Dr. Abdul Munim Al Hasani, Minister of Information.

The organisation of the exhibition comes within FIAP events and programme for photography in the Middle East – which is based in Oman.

It coincides with the Sultanate’s celebrations made to mark the Omani Women’s Day. -ONA

G R E AT C A M PA I G N

A1 Red Arrows showcase British creativity < FROM

The deployment will contribute to the UK government’s GREAT campaign and showcase the best of British innovation and industry.

Squadron Leader David Montenegro, Team Leader of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team and Red 1, said: “Ever since the team’s first season in 1965, the Red Arrows have performed on a global scale.

“The team – flying British-built aircraft – has displayed to millions of people in more than 55 countries around the world. This year, in 2016, we are honoured to represent the United Kingdom on an even greater platform, to new locations.”

The Asia-Pacific and Middle East Tour will see 12 Hawk T1s flown from the Red Arrows’ base of RAF Scampton,

in Lincolnshire, to the deployment locations.

China will take the number of countries the display team has performed in to 57 since 1965.

The exercise will also see the Squadron’s technicians and other ground staff travel in support.

Sqn Ldr Montenegro said: “Our Asia-Pacific and Middle East Tour is the Red Arrows’ largest overseas deployment for a decade and will see the team perform in China for the very first time.

“We were happy while performing at the Indian Air Force Day as well as having extensive engagement programmes in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Oman, Bahrain, the UAE and Kuwait.”

The overseas deployment began just two weeks after the final performance of a success-

ful domestic season, when the Red Arrows performed nearly 70 displays.

Sqn Ldr Montenegro said: “The tour is a tangible demonstration of how the UK is a bold, outwardlooking nation that works on the world stage with international partners.

“The two-month deployment will raise awareness of Britain’s economic offer, its industry and as a country that celebrates arts, science, sport, education and diversity.

“Indeed, our colourful, dynamic aerial display of precision, formation aerobatics – together with the associated events on the ground – are a vivid showcase of British engineering, teamwork and creativity.

“These performances are the

result of countless people and organisations, both in the UK and overseas, who have supported the team and made this possible – for which everyone in the Red Arrows would like to express sincere gratitude.”

The Strategic Defence and Security Review made clear the UK’s commitment to the Asia Pacific region and to building relationships to address global challenges.

Defence Secretary Michael Fallon announced the tour earlier this year. Following visits to Japan in January and Singapore in May, Fallon also confirmed that RAF Typhoon jets will take part in the joint exercise Bersama Lima from Malaysia, which forms part of the UK’s commitment to the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA).

WHO

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Oman to host meeting on safety of drugs MUSCAT: Next November, the Sultanate will host 39th Annual Meeting of Representatives of the National Pharmacovigilance Centres of the WHO Program for International Drug Monitoring (PIDM). 250 representatives from more than 60 countries will take part in the meeting.

The Sultanate is the first Gulf and the second Arab country after Morocco to join PIDM in 1995. Since then Oman has been one of the active countries in drug safety affairs and following up drugs after marketing stage.

WHO PIDM receives reports on the adverse effects of drugs from the national centres of the member countries.

The programme studies and analyses these reports and then makes necessary interventions to ensure preventing adverse effects of medicines or alleviate their effects. It also raises recommendations for health authorities to take actions. -ONA

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

A7

REGION Villages near Mosul rigged with tunnels and bombs US-backed government and Kurdish forces are steadily recovering outlying territory before the big push into the city

SHEIKH AMIR (IRAQ): A deep tunnel, booby trapped with an improvised explosive device, burrows under houses at the entrance to the village. Nearby, an anti-personnel mine lies half buried in a dirt road.

Residents began returning on Wednesday to the village of Sheikh Amir on the road to Mosul, recaptured overnight by advancing Kurdish fighters in the early days of the biggest advance that has been launched against IS militant group.

They found a village rigged with explosives and dug in with elaborate underground defences, abandoned by the hardliners who have retreated closer to Mosul, 30km (19 miles) to the west.

Three days into the assault began on Mosul, US-backed government and Kurdish forces are steadily recovering outlying territory before the big push into the city itself, expected to be the biggest battle in Iraq since the 2003 US-led invasion. Much of Sheikh Amir had been torn down, including the house of Abbas Ahmad Hussein, a 36-year-old resident who fled the village when militants of IS captured it in 2014.

Abbas returned on Wednesday to survey the damage with a small truck to take out any salvageable

FLEEING TO SAFETY: Displaced people who are fleeing from clashes arrive in Qayyarah, during an operation to attack IS militants in Mosul, Iraq, on Wednesday. – Reuters

items, but found nothing left to save amid the wreckage.

“I spent all my money to build this house and Daesh (IS) destroyed it,” he said. “My brother, my uncle and my cousins live around here and they destroyed all their houses too. They destroyed all the houses belonging to us.”

The village had a mixed population before IS arrived.

Mosul, the last major stronghold of IS fighters in Iraq, is five times the size of any other city the militant group has held. Recapturing it would deal a decisive blow to IS. But the booby trapped bunkers dug underneath this village, as well as the sectarian invective sprayed on its walls, show how difficult the advance may be. Tens of thousands of pro-government troops will face a tenacious enemy that has had years to prepare and a history of using civilians as hu-

man shields. A population of some 1.5 million will be in harm’s way.

This area of northern Iraq is among the most diverse parts of the country, with many ethnic and religious groups fearful of revenge attacks and worried about the balance of power once IS fighters are chased away.

In an announcement that could alarm some civilians in the path of the fighting, a powerful paramilitary force said it would support the Iraqi army’s offensive by helping secure a town located on one of the main routes out of Mosul.

The Popular Mobilization Force (PMF), a coalition of mostly militias, said late on Tuesday it would back government forces advancing towards Tal Afar, about 55km west of Mosul.

The PMF includes thousands of battle-hardened fighters with powerful political allies in Bagh-

POLITICS

Hariri likely to support Aoun for Lebanon’s presidency BEIRUT: Former Lebanese prime minister Saad Al Hariri intends to endorse Michel Aoun for the vacant presidency, senior political sources said, and the Hezbollah ally could be elected head of state later this month.

Long an opponent of the Hezbollah group, Hariri would become prime minister again under the plan that could reshape Lebanese politics. It has drawn opposition in his party and a final decision has not yet been taken, allies said. The presidency, which is reserved for a Maronite Christian in the country’s sectarian power-sharing arrangements, has been vacant for 2 1/2 years due to political conflicts. Aoun, a veteran

politician in his 80s, has long coveted the post.

It was not immediately clear if Aoun’s candidacy would enjoy enough support among other politicians to secure the necessary two-thirds quorum for the vote in the 128-seat parliament.

The next scheduled parliamentary session to elect a president is set for October 31.

Opponents of Aoun’s candidacy include Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, head of the Amal Movement and a close ally of Hezbollah, which itself has yet to comment.

The proposal, unthinkable until recently, casts new light on the predicament facing Hariri, whose standing as Lebanon’s most influ-

ential politician has been shaken by a financial crisis at his Saudibased construction business.

The troubles at Saudi Oger, which has been hit by falling oil prices and cuts in Saudi state spending, have led to a cash crunch in Hariri’s Future Movement.

Two senior politicians told Reuters that Hariri had expressed his intention to nominate Aoun for the presidency as part of the power-sharing deal.

A third source, a member of Hariri’s Future Movement, confirmed Hariri had expressed this intention, but members of his own parliamentary bloc opposed it. — Reuters

dad. They have been accused of carrying out killings and kidnappings in other areas freed from IS, although they deny such abuse is pervasive.

Iraqi officials want to keep them off the main battlefields in Mosul to avoid alarming residents.

Taking Tal Afar would in effect cut off the escape route for militants wanting to head into neighbouring Syria and would please the Iran-backed army of Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, which accuses the US-led anti-IS coalition of planning to allow the militants such a safe passage.

But it could also hamper the escape of civilians from Mosul, who must be persuaded that it is safe to leave. Washington is keen to limit the militias’ role.

The US-led military coalition providing air and ground support for the Mosul offensive said it

would not assist PMF units.

“As far as the PMF, the coalition only supports those elements that are under the direct command and control of the Iraqi security forces -- and the PMF are not,” said Major General Gary Volesky, the commander of US-led coalition ground forces in the fight against IS. “As far as what the PMF’s role is, again, that is up to the government of Iraq and we (advise) them on our recommendations,” Volesky said. “But at the end of the day, that is the government of Iraq’s decision.”

US President Barack Obama said on Tuesday it would be a difficult fight but IS “will be defeated in Mosul”. He hopes to bolster his legacy by seizing back as much territory as he can from IS before he leaves office in January.

A total of 20 villages were taken from the militants east, south and southeast of Mosul by early Tuesday, according to statements from the two forces. IS said on Monday its fighters had targeted the attacking forces with 10 suicide bombs and that their foes had surrounded five villages but not taken them. None of the reports could be independently verified.

In Washington, Pentagon spokesman Captain Jeff Davis told reporters on Tuesday that it was known that civilians in Mosul were being used as human shields.

Iraqi government forces are mostly fighting south of Mosul and were trying on Wednesday to clear the region of Shora, 40km (25 miles) south of the city, a military statement said. Kurdish Peshmerga fighters were deployed on the eastern and northern frontlines, 20 to 25 km from the city.

“The PMF will be backing the security forces on the western front (..) along two axes. The first is Tal Afar and the second is to support the forces going into the centre of Mosul,” a statement on the PMF website said. — Reuters

DECISION

Egypt high court reverses 14 death sentences CAIRO: Egypt’s highest court on Wednesday quashed death sentences imposed on 14 hardliners over an attack on a police station in protest at the military’s overthrow in 2013 of then-president Mohamed Morsi, the state news agency MENA said.

It was the court’s latest reversal of many of the hundreds of death sentences imposed on hardliners after the ouster of Morsi, a Muslim Brotherhood member, a crackdown strongly criticised by Western government and human rights groups.

In Wednesday’s decision, the Court of Cassation accepted appeals from the defendants filed last year against a lower criminal court ruling, and ordered them retried.

The court also threw out one 10year prison term in the same case.

Eight more defendants in the case were sentenced to death in absentia. The court did not quash those sentences but Egyptian law affords automatic retrials to convictions in absentia that are subsequently reversed.

The 23 defendants face charges of murder in the killing of a security official at the police station and the attempted murder of others in July 2013, as well as assault, rioting, sabotage, and illegal possession of firearms and knives.

The Court of Cassation gave no legal reasons for its reversals of the death sentences but is expected to do so in written form in a few days time.

In February the court ordered the retrial of 149 people on death row, out of a total 183, in a similar case where the defendants were accused of an assault on the same police station in August 2013 that left 14 policemen dead.

The attacks came after security forces dispersed two pro-Morsi protest camps in Cairo, killing hundreds of people in the process.

Morsi was toppled after mass protests against his rule. — Reuters

A8

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 We are trying to assess the requirement of security forces, climate and exam schedule — all these inputs are being taken into consideration. Only then we will be able to say whether they will be staggered or multi-phase Nasim Zaidi, Chief Election Commissioner

INDIA

India, Myanmar sign three pacts, to enhance trade ties The two sides signed three agreements to boost cooperation in power, banking and insurance sectors besides deciding to step up ties in areas of oil and gas, agriculture, renewable energy and health care

NEW DELHI: As Myanmar embarks on a journey of democracy and development, India on Wednesday assured it of unstinted support as the two traditionally close neighbours agreed to enhance ties in a range of areas including security and trade during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Myanmar’s top leader Aung Sung Suu Kyi. The two sides signed three agreements to boost cooperation in power, banking and insurance sectors besides deciding to step up ties in areas of oil and gas, agriculture, renewable energy and health care.

It is Suu Kyi’s first visit to India after her National League for Democracy wrested power from the military junta in a landmark election earlier this year.

Suu Kyi, who could not become Myanmar’s president due to a constitutional provision but has full control over the government, holds the position of State Councillor and Foreign Minister.

WARM GREETINGS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Myanmar State Counsellor and Foreign Minister Aung San Suu Kyi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Wednesday. - PTI

Welcoming Suu Kyi, the prime minister described India as her second home and assured that “India and its friendship will stand with you in full support and solidarity.”

“You are no stranger to the people of India. The sights, the sounds and vibrancy of Delhi are familiar to you. Welcome back, Excellency, to your second home! Excellency, you are an iconic leader,” he said in a media statement. Suu Kyi had done her graduation from Delhi University.

In her comments, the Myanmerese leader invoked Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru and said Myanmar drew huge inspiration from the two Indian leaders in its struggle for democracy.

The prime minister said as close and friendly neighbours,

the security interests of India and Myanmar are closely aligned.

The two countries agreed that close coordination to ensure security in the areas along border, and sensitivity to each other’s strategic interests, will help both neighbours, he said.

Myanmar, considered one of India’s strategic neighbours, shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur. Giving details of the talks, Modi said the two countries agreed to enhance engagement in several areas including agriculture, power, renewable energy and power sector.

“Let me assure you, Excellency, that as you lead Myanmar to become a modern, secure, economically prosperous and better

connected nation, India and its friendship will stand with you in full support and solidarity,” the prime minister said.

Effusive in his praise, Modi said, “Your clear vision, mature leadership, struggle and eventual success in establishing democracy in Myanmar has inspired people across the world.

“It is indeed an honour for us to receive you in India. We are also grateful for your participation at the BIMSTEC and the BRICSBIMSTEC outreach Summit in Goa a couple of days ago.”

Modi said Myanmar has commenced a “new journey” under Suu Kyi’s able leadership and India will always extend full support to it. “It is a journey of hope and much promise.” Talking about importance of connectivity, the

prime minister said Myanmar’s new government was keen to connect more deeply with South Asia and South East Asia.

Calling the talks “extensive and productive”, Modi said India has a robust development cooperation programme with Myanmar and that India’s nearly $1.75 billion of development assistance is being utilised in line with the priorites of Myanmarese government and its people.

“From the mega connectivity projects like Kaladan and Trilateral Highway, to projects in the fields of human resource development, healthcare, training and capacity building, we are sharing our resources and expertise with Myanmar,” he said.

The prime minister said India will develop a Varietal Development and Seed Production Centre in Yezin in Myanmar to enhance the quality of seeds.

“We will also work to develop a mutually beneficial arrangement for trade in pulses. We have offered to scale up the power supply from Moreh in Manipur to Tamu in Myanmar. We will also partner in a pilot LED electrification project at a site designated by the Government of Myanmar.”

He said the memorandum of understanding(MoU) on cooperation in the power sector will help create the framework for advancing linkages in the sector.

The prime minister said India has also offered assistance in restoring pagodas damaged in the recent earthquake in Myanmar.

Both the delegations had a working lunch.

“The Archaeological Survey of India will also soon begin work on restoring two old temples and inscriptions of King Mindon and King Baygyidaw in Bodh Gaya,” he said.

Suu Kyi’s visit here came nearly one-and-half months after Myanmerese President U. Htin Kyaw visited India. - PTI

P R O PAG A N D A V I D E O S

DISPLAYING WEAPONS: A group of Hizbul militants displaying weapons snatched from the Jammu and Kashmir security forces in an orchard in south Kashmir. - PTI

Video showing Hizbul militants surfaces SRINAGAR: A new video of Hizbul Mujahideen has surfaced on social media, showing a group of armed militants greeting and hugging each other, in a reminder of the campaign undertaken by its erstwhile commander Burhan Wani before he was killed in an encounter three months back.

In the four-and-a-half minute video, 12 militants are seen in an orchard, carrying weapons, including INSAS rifles apparently snatched from police forces.

They are seen greeting and hugging each other as well as laughing in an attempt to lure youth to join militancy.

Wani had actively used social media to attract the youth to militancy. He made many such propaganda videos before he was killed in the encounter with security forces on July 8.

Militancy In another video which also surfaced recently, the new Hizb commander Zakir Rashid Bhat alias “Musa” is seen asking youth to join militancy by snatching rifles from security forces.

During the recent months, there have been a number of incidents in which weapons were snatched or looted from police and security personnel.

At least 67 rifles have so far been snatched. These include INSAS and Carbine rifles, which are exclusively used by the police and security forces. - PTI

A S S E M B LY E L E C T I O N S

EC to announce poll schedule in five states based on security forces’ inputs NEW DELHI: The Election Commission will take a call on the dates of Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand, due early next year, based on the inputs provided by security forces and state law and order machinery, Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi said on Wednesday.

He said the schedule will be finalised keeping in mind the weather and examination schedule. “We are trying to assess the requirement of security forces, climate and exam schedule — all these inputs are being taken into consideration. Only then we will be able to say whether they will be staggered or multi-phase,” the CEC told reporters on the sidelines of an event.

To another question on the subject, he said, “As far as the schedule is concerned, the Commission has not given a thought as yet.”

While the term of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly ends in May next, the terms of assemblies of

CONFERENCE: Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi with Election Commissioner A. K. Joti at the inaugural session of International Conference and Exhibition on Voter Education for Inclusive, Informed and Ethical Participation in New Delhi on Wednesday. - PTI

Punjab, Goa, Manipur and Uttarakhand will end in March, 2017.

Against the backdrop of Ram temple issue hogging the limelight in Uttar Pradesh again, he was asked whether he thinks the Commission should be given powers to prevent political parties from making statements in

poll-bound states where elections have not yet been announced.

Skirting the issue, Zaidi said once the polls are announced and the model code comes enforce, the EC will ensure its compliance in letter and spirit.

“EC has in the past ensured strict compliance of the model code and will ensure the same in future too,” he said.

Terming use of money power a “matter of concern”, the CEC said in the last elections, it was a matter of concern and in the coming polls too there is feedback that there is possibility of misuse of money power.

“We have a strategy and we are making it more robust,” he said, adding that the poll watchdog has already written to the government to make bribery an electoral offence.

On the idea of compulsory voting Zaidi said it has not been found practical, months after the government rejected a similar demand in the Lok Sabha. - PTI

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PAKISTAN

Senator moves bill to regulate movement of foreign currency According to data provided by the central bank in August this year to a parliamentary committee, from 2013 through 2015, Pakistanis have sent $5.7 billion abroad through their foreign currency accounts

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla has moved the bill after the federal government backtracked from its announcement to review all the existing laws that allowed people to transfer money abroad and evade taxes

ISLAMABAD: As transfer of dollars abroad through banking channels peaked to $2 billion last year due to a lax 1992 law, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla has moved a Bill to withdraw unprecedented immunities enjoyed by foreign currency account holders.

However, State Bank of Pakistan has opposed the former finance minister’s “the Protection of Economic Reforms (Amendment) Bill 2016”, saying, “The proposed law appears inspired

by India”.

Contrary to the central bank’s take on a serious parliamentary business, India’s foreign currency regime is said to be one of the best in the world, according to independent legal and tax experts.

Senator Mandviwalla, elected on a Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP ) ticket, has moved the bill after the federal government backtracked

from its announcement to review all the existing laws that allowed people to transfer money abroad and evade taxes.

The proposed amendments have taken care of genuine foreign currency account holders and are seeking to cut the benefits of only those who are transferring billions of dollars abroad without any check.

Proposed Senator Mandviwalla has proposed that authorised dealers in Pakistan — banks, shipping and airlines companies, insurance companies, exporters of goods and services, students studying abroad and visitors abroad – may keep and operate foreign currency accounts.

He has suggested that all other individuals and entities should not hold foreign currency accounts, as these have become main source of transferring money abroad and evading taxes.

Mandviwalla moved the bill in

the Senate on October 3.

The Senate Chairman has now sent the proposed piece of legislation to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance for discussion and voting. The bill was on the agenda of the standing committee that met on Tuesday under the chair of Mandviwalla.

“Millions of dollars are transferred on a daily basis abroad through foreign currency accounts opened under Economic Reforms Act (PERA) of 1992 and nobody asks any question about the purpose of these transactions,” said Mandviwalla while explaining the rationale behind these amendments.

He said that a branch of a private commercial bank in Peshawar was found transferring $20 million a day in 2013 from nonbusiness accounts.

The PML-N government had enacted the PERA in 1992 that, according to legal and tax experts, was the root cause behind most fiscal crimes committed today.

M I L I TA N T G R O U P

Two held in Peshawar for spreading IS propaganda PESHAWAR: Police arrested two men suspected of distributing pamphlets for IS following a raid in the northwestern city of Peshawar, officials said on

Wednesday, amid lingering fears that the militant group was making inroads in Pakistan.

Last month, the military said that it had stemmed IS’s attempts

to expand in the country, having arrested more than 300 people suspected of plotting attacks against government, diplomatic and civilian targets. - Reuters

A9

It has become evident now that the drafters of the 1992 law wanted to favour someone while enacting the PERA, said Senator Mohsin Aziz of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI).

Data According to data provided by the central bank in August this year to a parliamentary committee, from 2013 through 2015, Pakistanis have sent $5.7 billion abroad through their foreign currency accounts.

During 2010-2011, $1 billion was sent abroad through foreign currency accounts (FCAs), which increased to $1.2 billion during 2011-12.

During 2012-13, the figure jumped to $1.9 billion, and was recorded at $2 billion by the end of 2015, according to the central bank.

Senator Mandviwalla has proposed amendments into section 4 and section 5 of the 1992 law.

Under section 4, he has pro-

posed that only authorised dealers, foreign branches, of Pakistani banks, shipping companies, airlines, insurance corporations incorporated in Pakistan and their subsidiaries, students, exporters and foreign visitors can open these accounts.

Mandviwalla has also proposed to replace section 5 that grants immunity from enquiry by tax department, immunity from wealth tax, income tax, zakat deduction, and allows the banks to keep the information of these account holders secret, with a new section.

“All other individuals and entities may become ineligible to open and maintain foreign currency accounts within and outside Pakistan,” if these amendments are accepted, according to a written response of the SBP submitted to the standing committee.

It further added that a question may also arise as to the legality of the existing foreign currency accounts.

“The proposed law appears inspired by India,” according to the central bank’s written comment that Senate Secretariat reproduced in a brief circulated among the committee members.

The SBP further noted that no amendments were required in the law. The PERA of 1992 prescribes no limit on funds transfer through foreign currency accounts to and from Pakistan on an individual, according to central bank officials.

They said money can even be transferred without the permission of the central bank.

The SBP officials said FCAs are not exempted from income tax and the Federal Board of Revenue can question over taxes paid on the money deposited in these accounts.

However, FBR Member Policy Rehamtullah Wazir informed the committee that the banks were not providing information about foreign currency account depositors. - Express Tribune

STRENGTHEN TRADE TIES

Pakistan urges US to ease travel advisory ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has urged the United States to revise its travel advisory pertaining to the country in a bid to promote a softer and more investor-friendly image to US citizens.

This request was put forth

by Commerce Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, during the 8th Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council Meeting on Tuesday, aimed at securing preferential access to the textile market and an easy-visa regime for exporters of IT-related services to further strengthen trade ties between the two countries.

The US delegation, led by United States Trade Representatives (USTR) Ambassador Michael Froman, included US Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale among others.

Speaking during the inaugural session, Khan said that there are several reasons for which Pakistan deserves preferential access to the US textile market.

“Several international institutions have substantiated Pakistan’s stable economy, while the security situation has also greatly improved. Pakistan is now a lot safer than it was a few years ago,” the minister said. Speaking on the occasion, Forman was of the view that TIFA serves as a premier forum for advancing our trade investment relationship.

“Current economic relationship with Pakistan is just a fraction of what it could be and with TIFA we can seek that potential,” he said.

The ambassador was of the view that under the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, important structural reforms have been undertaken in Pakistan.

These included economic and energy reforms, which have enhanced the overall economic growth and lowered inflation providing a conducive business environment for further strengthening trade ties between the two countries, said the ambassador. -Express Tribune

A 10

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016 There had been 12 lese-majeste cases since last Thursday, with arrest warrants issued for eight suspects and four already in police custody.

Kitsana Pattanacharoen, Thailand police spokesman

WORLD

South China Sea arbitration case to take ‘back seat’, says Duterte in tone that has added to strains between the Philippines and the United States, even as Duterte has vowed not to surrender any sovereignty to Beijing.

Duterte said on Sunday he would raise the arbitral ruling, and vowed not to deviate from the tribunal’s award.

Philippine President said he did not want to make any ‘hard impositions’ on the South China Sea, and would wait for Chinese President Xi Jinping to raise the subject

BEIJING: The South China Sea arbitration case will “take the back seat” during talks with China, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said on Wednesday in Beijing, adding that he would wait for the Chinese to bring up the dispute rather than doing so himself.

Duterte arrived in Beijing on Tuesday with at least 200 top business people to pave the way for what he calls a new commercial alliance, amid deteriorating

ties with longtime ally the United States. The effort to engage China, months after the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled over South China Sea disputes in favour of the Philippines, marks a reversal in Philippine foreign policy since Duterte took office on June 30.

China refused to participate in the arbitration case or recognise its findings.

Speaking to reporters at his

POLICY REVERSAL: President Rodrigo Duterte in Beijing, China, on Wednesday. – Reuters

hotel, Duterte described the judgment as a “piece of paper”.

“It would not be in keeping with courtesy and goodwill if I am the one to open it,” he said. “And you will say, will it take a back seat? Of course, it has to take the back seat.”

China has welcomed the shift

Hard impositions Speaking in Beijing, Duterte said he did not want to make any “hard impositions” on the South China Sea, and would wait for Chinese President Xi Jinping to raise the subject. “I have to be courteous and I have to wait for your president to mention it in passing for me to respond,” he said.

“It is in the broader outline of talks that we have agreed. But as a matter of courtesy, and the oriental way, we will always wait because I am a visitor. I cannot destroy the goodwill just by blurt-

ing out something.” In a series of conflicting statements, Duterte has insulted US President Barack Obama and the US ambassador in Manila for questioning his war on drugs, which has led to the deaths of 2,300 people. He told Obama to “go to hell” and alluded to severing US ties.

Speaking earlier, Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay said territorial disputes between China and the Philippines may take a lifetime to resolve, but should not prevent warming ties.

On Wednesday, Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez told reporters in Beijing that Bank of China had agreed to provide a $3 billion credit facility for infrastructure investments in the Philippines. Their remarks came as Philippine police used teargas to disperse about 1,000 anti-American protesters outside the US embassy in Manila.

Yasay reiterated that the thaw with China was “not going to erode our close ties with the rest of our allies and traditional partners”.

“As we renew our ties with this great nation, it does not mean that we are weakening ties with the rest of the members of the international community. This is at the core of the independent foreign policy that our president has moved and put forward,” he said.

After weeks of anti-American rhetoric, Duterte said the Philippines would maintain its existing defence treaties and its military alliances. China has expressed support for Duterte’s drug war, even as it has sparked concerns in Western capitals about extrajudicial killings. Philippine police made 29 arrests at the rally outside the US embassy, where protesters were calling for the removal of American troops in the southern island of Mindanao. — Reuters

ANKARA

Turkish police kill suspected IS suicide bomber ANKARA: Turkish police shot dead a suspected IS militant overnight who was believed to be planning a suicide bomb attack in the capital Ankara, the city’s governor said on Wednesday.

It was the latest in a series of counter-terrorist police operations coinciding with a Turkeybacked rebel operation in Syria to drive the militants away from its southern border.

Turkish security forces have meanwhile stepped up action against Kurdish militants, killing 14 Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) fighters in eastern Turkey in recent days, the interior minister said. Police tracked the IS suspect to the ninth floor of a building on Ankara’s outskirts, where he was killed in a gunfight around 3am after opening fire in response to a call to surrender, the state-run Anadolu Agency said.

“The terrorist is judged to have been planning to carry out a suicide bomb attack and carried out reconnaissance around the old parliament building and Anitkabir,” Governor Ercan Topaca wrote on Twitter, referring to the mausoleum of modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.

The suspect may have been targeting ceremonies to be held there on the October 29 anniversary of the Turkish Republic’s foundation or on November 10 to commemorate Ataturk’s death, Anadolu cited Topaca as saying.

Police found explosive materials including sticks of dynamite and ammonium nitrate at the scene, the governor said. The sus-

pect was registered as resident of the southeastern city of Diyarbakir and was born in 1992, Anadolu said. After receiving intelligence that militants were planning attacks in the capital, Topaca’s office on Monday banned public meetings and marches until the end of November. The ban was enforced in line with emergency rule imposed after an attempted coup in July. IS and Kurdish militants have carried out attacks in the capital. This month two suspected PKK members, believed to be planning a car bomb attack, blew themselves up in a standoff with police in Ankara.

Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu told reporters in Ankara that operations targeting militants would continue in the days ahead and said 13 PKK fighters were killed this week in the eastern province of Tunceli and one further north in Erzincan.

In the Lice district of Diyarbakir province, PKK militants staged a rocket attack on a minibus carrying members of the state-sponsored village guard militia who fight against the PKK, killing two guards and wounding two others, security sources said.

Separately, the sources said 20 people were detained overnight in simultaneous raids across the city of Diyarbakir designed to avert IS bomb attacks.

In the Mediterranean coastal province of Mersin, the governor has banned street celebrations such as weddings for reasons of public security, his office said in a statement on its website. — Reuters

OFFENSIVE TO MONARCHY

Royal defamation cases rise after death of Thai king BANGKOK: Thai police are investigating 12 new complaints of royal defamation on social media lodged since the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej last week, a sharp rise amid intensifying scrutiny of anything deemed offensive to the monarchy.

The death last Thursday of the revered king, who was 88, after seven decades on the throne has plunged the Southeast Asian country into mourning and heightened sensitivity about the monarchy.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha has moved quickly to quash any uncertainty around the royal succession, saying Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn would ascend the throne after a period of mourning that he had requested.

Insulting the monarch, the regent or the heir, known by the French-language term “lesemajeste”, is a crime in Thailand that carries a jail sentence of up to 15 years for each offense.

Police spokesman Kitsana Pattanacharoen said there had been 12 lese-majeste cases since last Thursday, with arrest warrants issued for eight suspects and four already in police custody.

“Their crime was posting messages or pictures which insulted the monarchy on social media,” he told Reuters.

There were 70 cases in the twoand-a-half years from a May 2014 coup up to last Thursday, said Weerawat Somnuek, a researcher at Thai legal monitoring group iLaw. “Twelve cases in a week is a lot,” Weerawat told Reuters.

The stepped-up prosecutions come at a time of deep grief among Thais, who have for decades seen the late king as a unifying father figure.

Thailand’s main mobile telecoms operators have, at the government’s request, asked customers to report websites and social media posts deemed inappropriate or insulting. — Reuters

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

WORLD RISKY DESCENT

European Mars lander touches down on red planet in giant leap FRANKFURT: The search for life on Mars took a giant leap on Wednesday when a space lander touched down on the red planet in Europe’s first attempt to land a craft there since the Beagle 2’s “heroic failure” more than a decade ago.

The disc-shaped 577-kg (1,272 lb) Schiaparelli lander, which is testing technologies for a rover due to follow in 2020, landed on Mars after a risky descent.

During the six minutes descent to the surface, it used a parachute and thrusters to slow from a speed of nearly 21,000 km (13,000 miles) per hour.

“We have to wait a little bit to see what happens with the test lander.

But this (mission) is already a success so far,” European Space

Agency (ESA) Director General Jan Woerner said at ESA’s Space Operations Centre in Darmstadt, Germany.

The lander is named for Giovanni Schiaparelli, the Italian astronomer who in 1877 began mapping the topography of Mars, extending study of what are now known as the planet’s canals, a mistranslation of the Italian word canali, or channels. “Mars has already inspired people for centuries,” ESA’s Woerner told Reuters TV. Schiaparelli is part of the European-Russian ExoMars programme, which will search for signs of past and present life on Mars and represents only the second European attempt to land a craft on the red planet. Britain’s

SUCCESSFUL MISSION: An illustration released by the European Space Agency (ESA) shows the Schiaparelli EDM lander. – ESA/Handout via Reuters

Beagle 2 was ejected from the Mars Express spacecraft in 2003 but never made contact after failing to deploy its solar panels upon landing. At the time it was dubbed “a

heroic failure”. Landing on Mars, Earth’s neighbour some 35 million miles (56 million km) away, is a notoriously difficult task that has bedevilled most Russian efforts and given NASA trouble as well.

A seemingly hostile environment on Mars has not detracted from its allure, with US President Barack Obama recently highlighting his pledge to send people to the planet by the 2030s.

Entrepreneur Elon Musk’s SpaceX is developing a massive rocket and capsule to transport large numbers of people and cargo to Mars with the ultimate goal of colonising the planet, with Musk saying he would like to launch the first crew as early as 2024.

The primary goal of ExoMars

is to find out whether life has ever existed on Mars. The spacecraft on which the Schiaparelli lander travelled to Mars, Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO), carries an atmospheric probe to study trace gases such as methane around the planet.

Scientists believe that methane, a chemical that on Earth is strongly tied to life, could stem from micro-organisms that either became extinct millions of years ago and left gas frozen below the planet’s surface, or that some methaneproducing organisms still survive.

“If there is life in our solar system beyond Earth, then Mars is the most interesting planet,” ESA’s Woerner said. The second part of the ExoMars mission, delayed to 2020 from 2018, will

deliver a European rover to the surface of Mars. It will be the first with the ability to both move across the planet’s surface and drill into the ground to collect and analyse samples.

The ExoMars 2016 mission is led by the European Space Agency (ESA), with Russia’s Roscosmos supplying the launcher and two of the four scientific instruments on the trace gas orbiter. The prime contractor is Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales and Finmeccanica.

The cost of the ExoMars mission to ESA, including the second part due in 2020, is expected to be about 1.3 billion euros ($1.4 billion). Russia’s contribution comes on top of that. — Reuters

Sadiq warns of chronic skills gap over Brexit London Mayor Sadiq Khan accused Prime Minister Theresa May of using European Union nationals as ‘bargaining chips’ in her Brexit negotiations

LONDON: London risks a “chronic skills shortage” because of the uncertainty European Union (EU) citizens who work in the capital are facing over Brexit, Mayor Sadiq Khan said.

Speaking to the London Assembly on Wednesday, Khan joined the Scottish National Party in accusing Prime Minister Theresa May of using EU nationals as “bargaining chips” in her Brexit negotiations. May has said the residency rights of EU nationals will be assured only if there are similar guarantees for UK citizens living in other EU nations.

“One million EU citizens live and work in London and our economy relies on them,” Khan told London Assembly members.

“Because this government is using them as a bargaining chip, there is real uncertainty over how many will stay after Brexit. We could be left with a chronic skills shortage that hits London more than elsewhere.”

Starting off the parlia-

mentary debate, the SNP urged May to give EU workers a “castiron guarantee” that their status in the UK will be protected.

Goodwill signaled that a final resolution of the issue is months away at the minimum, because it’ll feed into formal divorce talks that won’t start until May officially triggers them by activating Article 50 of the EU’s Lisbon Treaty.

She’s said she’ll do that by the end of March.

“The time frame for resolving this issue is to address it as part of the wider negotiation on the UK’s exit from the EU to ensure the fair treatment of British citizens,” Goodwill said.

“The government has been clear that it wants to protect the status of EU nationals resident in the UK. As the prime minister has made clear, the only circumstances in which that would not be possible are if British citizens’ rights in other EU member states are not protected in return.”

May has also said controlling

immigration will be a key component of the Brexit deal, to reflect the views of those who voted in June to leave the EU. Khan, a member of the main opposition Labour Party, said that London has become “one of the biggest, richest and best cities on Earth because of our openness” and urged the government to ensure any new visa system is “flexible”.

“We need to maintain as much access as possible to the single market. I see advantages to a system that will makes sure that London is open and competitive,” Khan said. “This cannot be one that restricts London’s access to the talent that we need.”

Khan said that the City of London Corporation, which runs the city’s financial district, and the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry are preparing proposals on post-Brexit access for foreign workers, and he’ll get them by November. His administration isn’t carrying out its own study so as “not to duplicate” the work, he said.

“We’re going to obviously work with the government in relation to making sure any proposals are workable: Just to be frank, the proposals may not be workable,” Khan said.

“We need to move sooner rather than later because obviously in the meantime there is a need to make sure we carry on attracting talent.” — Bloomberg

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READERS’ FORUM People should be encouraged to use public transport This refers to the story, 69% of people in Oman use personal vehicles (October 19). In my opinion, there should be restrictions to stop the growing trend of personal vehicles as people should be encourgaed to use public transport in order to overcome traffic jams and other related problems especially in the peak offices times. I think it is a very important issue from the future prospective.

-Adil Khushnood, via Facebook People may seek other ways to send money to home countries Scan this QR code This refers to story Expat remittance to send letters to the tax: Oman’s Central Bank boss speaks out Readers’ Forum, (October 19). Taxing only a certain category containing not more than 200 words with of people is not a right decision to boost full name, address the economy of the country. It may have and telephone adverse effects and people might start to number, may be sent think about other methods to send money by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com). to their families back in their home countries. In my opinion, the government needs to implement certain plans to bring several investment projects to Oman and attract investors. However, here certain rules are adapted as compulsory, the investors are not at all confident to enter the Omani market.

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Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.

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PANKAJ MISHRA

Wisdom of people, manifested lately by demagogues, has to reckon with the wisdom, often more arbitrary, of global markets.

The pound is sliding amid fears of a “hard Brexit.” and Scottish nationalists threaten secession from the UK. The very attempt by populists to take back control is making the future uncontrollable

he last thing I expected to pack for my holiday in Oman was a suit, but having booked a ticket for the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) and ticked the box which required me to adhere to a certain dress code, I had no other option. I had booked to see Mohammed Assaf accompanied by Nabil Azzam and the Multi-Ethnic Star Orchestra (MESTO) to perform at an evening of Arab and Palestinian music and dance at the ROHM but decided I would visit the building itself a few days before. Hence I was duly shown the splendid foyers and lobby with Omani and Moroccan designed teak panelling and the extensive use of Carrara marble for the walls and floor, not to mention the German-built organ, the discreet airconditioning, the sound- proofing and told about the varied possibilities to re-configure much of the seating when required.

All most impressive, and eloquently explained in English by the guide, though when it came to question time and I asked her if she was going to sing, she declined owing to “a bad voice”.

When it came to the concert itself, I duly followed instructions and was there one hour in advance, hence having plenty of time to see what other concert-goers were wearing.

Most of them, of Omani or Palestinian origin, were dressed very smartly in dishdashas or suits with Palestinian scarves, the ladies equally elegant in long attire with the stewardesses themselves in colourful lawasi-style dresses. Western guests were very much in the minority but I did notice one steward having to tell one European visitor to tuck his shirt in, something I have not heard since my headmaster had to tell the occasional pupil himself on the way to assembly.

The concert began with the Funoniyat Palestinian Folklore Troupe, consisting of eight men and eight women from Ramallah, dance with great flair and energy. What was amazing about the MESTO was how the music they played had that unmistakable Middle Eastern tone, yet none of its members was of Arab origin.

When Mohammed Assaf made his appearance there was much applause and jubilation, particularly from a large group of young Palestinians behind me. As the elderly Omani gentlemen next to me explained, Assaf first sang some traditional Arab songs, getting many to clap and stand up in appreciation, including him. Only after the interval did Assaf perform some of his hits, such as La

Wayn Brouh, which has been heard over eightand-a-half million times on YouTube, and understandably so.

For those who may not be familiar with him, Assaf won Arab Idol in 2013 and since then he has gone on to perform around the world. Furthermore, he has been appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for Peace by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees, the 26-year-old having grown up on the Khan Younis refugee camp in the Gaza Strip.

Here is a young man who, with his voice, good looks, smile and charm has the power to change the way the world looks at Palestine, such a welcome change from what the territory is usually associated with.

Not that Assaf’s road to success was an easy one, he had to forge a visa to get to Egypt where the Arab Idol contest took place. Arriving too late to attend auditions, another contestant gave him his entrant’s pass when he realised, with Assaf’s voice, the young Palestinian was sure to reach the finals.

In fact he did more, he won.

In the second half of the concert, someone the front row threw Assaf a scarf, (though not a keffiyeh, the typical Palestinian head gear famously worn by Yasser Arafat), albeit in national colours, which he duly put around his neck, much to the approval of his compatriot fans as they shouted out the name of songs they wanted him to perform.

Before attending this highly enjoyable evening, I was in a taxi on my way through Muscat when I asked the driver to play some Arab music as I find this adds to the general pleasant experience of being driven through the city’s streets.

I told him of my excitement at attending the forthcoming concert. He had heard of Mohammed Assaf but told me he disapproved of music. He said this sort of singing about love and such like was something that had been imported from the west to countries such as Egypt and the Lebanon. Naturally I was rather surprised, as music can bond people of different nationalities otherwise separated by linguistic barriers. After all, while I appreciate Assaf’s singing, I did not know what he was singing about (until I read a translation).

Alas this unforgettable evening was over all too soon. As I was driven back to my hotel, I looked back at the floodlit opera house but, on this short trip, refrained from asking the driver to play any music, Assaf’s songs still echoing in my ears.

- The writer is an editor at Switzerland’s Zug Post

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES OCTOBER 2001 State audit official to attend Egypt forum MUSCAT: The State Audit Institution will take part in the training forum which begins today at the Central Apparatus for Accounts of Egypt. The forum is organised by the Egyptian body in association with the Arab Group of Higher Institutions for State Audit and Accounts.

Suleiman bin Ahmad Al Barashdi, audit supervisor for education and service sectors, will represent the Sultanate at the forum.

TODAY IN HISTORY INVITATION TO WRITERS We invite our readers to write articles on topics related to Oman. The articles should not exceed 800 words.

Send us your article along with your picture to akhtar@timesofoman.com

PICTOGRAPH

PUBLIC FINANCE CUSTOM DUTIES (in million Omani Rials) Total end of May 2015

2016

176.7

75.3

1944: US troops land on Leyte in the Philippines, keeping General MacArthur’s pledge “I shall return.”

1991: The Oakland Hills firestorm destroys nearly 3,500 homes and apartments and kills 25 people.

2011: In the Libyan civil war, rebels capture deposed dictator Muammar Gaddafi in his hometown of Sirte, killing him soon afterward.

0 Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

LIFESTYLE CULTURE The journey of Nivin has been phenomenal. He didn’t take shortcuts to become successful. He made inroads by facing hurdles just like any other budding actor would have done. He didn’t start acting in movies to become popular. For him cinema is a way of life.

Story Nishad Padiyarath

he days in Aluva have the feel of one ‘exciting’ long afternoon.

The reason is simple, as we look from the backside of the famous Periyar Hotel, one can see the Aluva Lake and the iconic ‘canal’ where a portion of the super-hit movie Premam was shot. “Hundreds of people come here just to take pictures,” said Narayanan, a resident in Aluva. Film Premam has made this place famous, but more than that this is where our young superstar Nivin Pauly hails from,” he said, brimming with joy.

“Everyone who comes from faraway places only wants to know where Nivin Pauly stays,” he said. The commerce of the city is centred on the two sides of the road and in most of these shops you can find stories of Nivin’s empty boring afternoons before his journey into the big world of cinema.

I have been following Nivin, ever since Anjali Menon’s blockbuster movie Bangalore Days was released, but the young star was unstoppable and every time I sent him a text on WhatsApp requesting for a meet-up, he apologised for the inconvenience due to his busy movie shooting schedules. But a relationship was established. As seamless as his acting on screen, we just connected.

From there, the journey of Nivin has been phenomenal. Three years down the line, he has started his own production house and is arguably the biggest young superstar and the “most valuable star” when it comes to satellite rights.

Soon after the success of his film Action Hero Biju, which he funded, I texted him my congratulations. There was a long conversation. He happily shared with me the joy of being a producer and the issues he had dealt with. “Let’s meetup sometime soon,” I told him. Then there was a long pause. 10 minutes later he replied. “Brother, how about meeting in Dubai next month?”

For me, taking a 40-minute flight to neighbouring Dubai is faster than a three-hour flight to Kochi, where Nivin currently resides. “Why not,” I replied.

And we were on.

A car pulls up to the curb in a busy central district in Dubai, and out steps Nivin. There are crowds everywhere, but he cannot be recognised. With his long beard (that is now his signature style), and a cool cap, he is far from being recognised.

As soon as he spotted me, he came to me, hugged me with affection and took my two-year-old son Advith in his arms.

This is the friendship I have built with him over the years. Here is a star who is now a phenomenon among South Indian film lovers, and spends his precious time with my family in Dubai for no reason.

It’s always been like that with Nivin.

I may not see him often but when we meet, we use the usual tribal lingo with one another.

Nivin walks up and down the busy shopping mall in Dubai with me, with people walking past him without recognition. He is enjoying the midsummer

For someone who has brought immense excitement to South Indian cinema, Nivin is more than an inspiration. warmth and the rare anonymity. “You know brother, I like it here, I have more freedom to do whatever I want and move around without any problems,” he said. “I enjoy that feeling; it is very different for me.”

Nivin remains humble and warm, obliging and polite, and speaks in a soft voice. The meet-up was purely cordial, but the journalist in me cannot resist asking him questions.

The first question was about his calmness. He broke into a big smile. For the next hour, he was focused, but also open and at ease. He did not duck. He did not flinch. He did not look at his phone. Like a curious journalist I asked him many questions, both about his films and per-

sonal life. At the end of an hour, many questions still remained.

Back home in Kerala, of course, Nivin is an icon. His every movement and utterance is monitored by fans. “It’s tough to get him out for dinner these days. A lot of people want to get close to him to take a selfie or an autograph. That is the weight Nivin carries and I am extremely happy for him,” said his close friend and actor Aju Varghese.

“His career track is a result of lots of hard work and dedication. I must say his focus on work and priorities has taken him to places,” he explained.

“Nivin’s career track is a result of lots of hard work and dedication. I must say his focus on work and priorities has taken him to places,” – Aju Varghese.

Varghese For Aju, Nivin is more than a friend.

“We have acted together in most of the films and he is a good friend, who stands with me whenever I need any kind of help,” he said.

“As an actor, it’s a great comfort that he extends help whenever; I got to share the screen with him and I feel it has always complimented my character as I am a mediocre actor, so I need this kind of support always,” he added.

Popular South Indian actor Kunchacko Boban, who has acted with Nivin in many films, had this to say: “The first time I met Nivin was when he came to invite me for his wedding. I have worked with him in a few films, but I have seen him evolving as a superstar from close quarters and I am extremely

happy the way he has reached this stage.”

For Chackochan (as he is fondly called as), Nivin is a textbook for budding actors. “The strain he takes, the hard work and the time he spends during each film, is quite inspiring for every actor. Even after reaching this height, he remains humble. This is something everyone, including young actors, should learn,” he said.

“The strain Nivin takes, the hard work and the time he spends during each film, is quite inspiring for every actor,” said Kunchacko Boban.

In the neighbouring Tamil Nadu, where people eat, drink and sleep cinema, Nivin is a sensation. His film Premam ran close to 300 days in several multiplexes in Chennai and according to industry reports, he has signed as many as four films to make his foray into Tollywood.

Nivin is truly the man of the moment.

Just a month ago, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who owns the popular Indian Super League football team Kerala Blasters, chose him as the team’s brand ambassador.

For someone who has brought immense excitement to South Indian cinema, Nivin is more than an inspiration. At 32, the star has already become a brand.

From an electronics and communications engineer to an Infosys employee in Bangalore, to the biggest sensation in Malayalam cinema today, Nivin has shown how passion and perseverance can take you places.

—nishad@timesofoman.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

WEATHER

TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

36 - 22 61-21% 0

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COLLECTION OF RARE OTTOMAN MASTERPIECES TO BE EXHIBITED IN SHARJAH

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collection of priceless Islamic artefacts originating from 16th-17th century Hungary is to be shown in the Arab world for the first time at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation.

Spectacle and Splendour – Ottoman Masterpieces from the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest will display exquisite examples of early Ottoman craftsmanship, including embroidered luxury textiles, bejewelled ceremonial weapons and elaborately crafted horse saddles.

The rare pieces present visitors with a window into the powerful and sophisticated lives of Ottoman and Hungarian elites some 500 years ago, as well as giving a unique insight into methods of workmanship perfected by local craftsmen at the time.

Running from October 26, 2016 to 19 January 2017, the exhibition marks the inaugural collaboration between the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation and the Budapest Museum of Applied Arts, which was established in 1872.

Manal Ataya, Director General of Sharjah Museums Department, said: “We are very honoured to be hosting an exhibition of artefacts that have never before been seen in the Arab world.

“We have worked closely together to choose items exclusively for this exhibition from the museum’s extensive and internationally-acknowledged collection, and visitors are sure to find much to fascinate and inspire them.”

On behalf of the Budapest Museum of Applied Arts, its Director General, Zoltán Cselovszki, too, underlined the intercultural importance of this collaboration for his country and his museum. Indeed, ‘this exhibition in Sharjah symbolises one of many new departures for the Budapest Museum of Applied B O L LY B U Z Z

‘Dear Zindagi’ trailer reveals a new SRK The setting for Gauri Shindes second film Dear Zindagi is Goa. The teaser opens magnificently to the sound of waves and seagulls. Before superstar Shah Rukh Khan or his endearing co-star Alia Bhatt makes an appearance, one can hear his voice. He is saying that his father would bring him to the beach to play ‘kabaddi’ with waves. SRK then proceeds to show Alia how. Her embarrassment, amazement, surprise, and delight are contagious. The sequence is vintage Goan nostalgia mixing the odour of memory with the magical pleasure of the moment when the present company seems as perfect as it can get.

Shah Rukh looks very happy in Alia’s company. Perhaps it is the company he is seen keeping in the brief but irradiant trailer that lights up the screen for less than a minute leaving film buffs craving for more. The feeling of a life worth living comes through in the second scene of the trailer when we see Shah Rukh and Alia cycling together. Shah Rukh after a dull innings with his last two films seems bright, alert, and romantic. As for Alia, she is again going to prove herself an underage performing miracle. -IANS

Arts, which will soon be undergoing major refurbishment — including plans for a brand new gallery of Islamic arts and textiles, projected to open to the public in about four years time’.

‘Spectacle and Splendour’ captures a period of Hungarian history when parts of the country, mainly the central and southern regions, were under Ottoman rule.

During this time, much cultural exchange took place between Hungary and the Ottoman Empire, as eastern European elites competed to secure the finest items from Ottoman workshops in order to display their power, authority and sophistication. tho Ottoman masterpieces entered Hungary as early as the 16th century as prized token of diplomacy, through trade or as war booty. Some Otttoman-inspired items were even made in Hunw ggary itself - the result of skills and artistic tastes being transferred across b different regions of Otttoman rule.

‘Spectacle and Splendour’ will give visitors the unique chance to see outstandingly rare and exquisite artefacts that are not only fascinating and stunning in themselves, but also serve as a gateway to learning more about the history of the Ottoman empire and its interaction with Eastern Europe, in particular Hungary.

The exhibition also provides important insights into key aspects of Islamic civilisation, such as the symbolic importance of textiles and carpets, the exchange of diplomatic gifts and the importance of horsemanship.

For those more interested in design rather than art history, the pieces on show offer many opportunities to study the artistic and technical intricacies of Islamic textiles, weapons, and even horse tack.

For more information visit sharjahmuseums.ae —lifestyle@timesofoman.com

PRAYER TIMINGS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

11.57pm 3.15pm 5.42pm 6.53pm 4.51am

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GOLD PRICES*

Type ............................Delivery...........Price

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.33 Pound ..........................................2.09 Indian Rs ............................. 172.95 Pakistan Rs ........................267.24 Bangla Taka.......................201.25

Indian Rs .....................................173.11 Pakistan Rs ..............................271.45 Sri Lanka Rs .................................. N/A Bangla Taka........................... 203.55 Phil Peso ................................... 124.55

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) ....... 16.10

Oman Crude............. (Spot) .........$49.01 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........ $48.76 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) .........$50.74 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$48.68 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ........$52.33

* Rates as of October 19 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of October 19 Source: Bank Muscat

West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$50.95

Oman’s bourse needs market makers: CMA The market makers, who are prevalent in developed bourses, are needed to develop an active secondary market for debt instruments, said Capital Market

Anyone can apply for a market-maker licence. But the economic condition is not conducive for market maker to be active. The liquidity (in the market) is not enough. Market makers need a certain amount of liquidity and depth Abdullah bin Salem Al Salmi

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman’s bourse needs market-makers to develop an active secondary market for debt instruments, said a top-level official at the Capital Market Authority (CMA). The market makers, who are prevalent in developed bourses, are a group of broker-dealers who help strengthening trading volumes with frequent trading.

“We need to have market makers for activating the secondary market for debt instruments. But before that we need to have a sizable bond market,” Abdullah bin Salem Al Salmi, executive president of the Capital Market Authority, told Times of Oman.

Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 153.00 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 143.75 * Rates as of October19 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

NEW ROLE

Orpic names new CEO Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) has announced the appointment of its chief executive officer (CEO) from January 1, 2017.

Ahmed Saleh Al Jahdhami joins Orpic, having previously worked at Oman Power & Water Procurement Company (OPWP), as its chief executive officer.

Ahmed holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nottingham University (UK), and started his career in Petroleum development Oman (PDO) in 1997.

He performed a range of operational, technical and commercial roles in PDO’s production business. Ahmed was also chairman

of Omani Staff Committee and became involved with PDO extended leadership team.

Project manager From 2005 to 2007, Ahmed worked for the Ministry of National Economy as project manager of the Sur Independent Water Project (IWP).

He then joined Electricity Holding Company (EHC) where he initially led the restructuring of the Salalah electricity business, and subsequently became Electricity Holding Company’s director of Privatisation and Restructuring.

Ahmed has served as a board member in a number of electricity companies, and is currently board member of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Interconnection Authority and Injaz Oman.

Executive president, Capital Market Authority

Authority chief

A. E. JAMES

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......15.50

SOVEREIGN BONDS

The CMA chief also said that brokerage firms can act as market makers. “Anyone can apply for a market-maker licence. But the economic condition is not conducive for market maker to be active.

The liquidity (in the market) is not enough. Market makers need a certain amount of liquidity and depth,” he added.

Oman’s corporate sector and government have been resorting to the market for funds by way of bonds and sukuk. This year alone, the Central Bank of Oman has raised OMR300 million worth of bonds so far, while another bond issue to raise OMR150 million will be floated towards the end of the year. Besides, Oman government issued its maiden sovereign sukuk last year for raising OMR250 million, which received an overwhelming response.

Developing a vibrant sukuk market is also important for government to raise money for funding infrastructure projects in a Sharia-compliant manner. Development of a yield curve is vital for encouraging companies to come out with Islamic debt instrument or sukuks.

Yield curve needed However, the secondary market for bonds was inactive all these years due to the fact that investors have been holding the instrument in view of low deposit rates.The CMA fully supports a vibrant fixed income market, which is essential to the development, financial stability and diversification economy.

The government has to maintain an yield curve, which is a benchmark for other bond issuers.

Without this, the corporate sector

will not be able to issue sukuk or other conventional bonds. Traditionally, companies in Oman tend to approach banks for funding their projects, whether it is for the short-term, mid-term or longterm requirement.

The CMA chief also said that the reintroduction of margin trading on the Muscat Securities Market (MSM) was important for enhancing liquidity. However, only a section of the brokerage firms is using the facility right now as only brokerage companies with good capital adequacy are allowed to carry out margin trading.

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Saudi plans $17.5b bonds RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is planning to raise as much as $17.5 billion in the biggest bond sale ever from an emerging-market nation, according to two people with knowledge of the offering, as it seeks to shore up finances battered by the slide in oil.

The government aims to sell dollar-denominated bonds due in five years yielding about 140 basis points more than similar-maturity United States Treasuries, 10-year notes at a spread of about 170 basis points and 30-year securities at 215 basis points, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information is private.

The sale would eclipse Argentina’s $16.5 billion offering in April as the largest from a developing

nation, underlining the deepening strain on an oil-dependent country that has eschewed international debt markets until now. The nation clocked up a budget shortfall of $97 billion last year, equal to 15 per cent of its gross domestic product, prompting the government this year to cut subsidies, wages and spending.

The offering followed a week of presentations to prospective buyers, taking in London, Los Angeles, Boston and New York, at which officials emphasised the kingdom’s efforts to diversify the $650 billion economy away from oil.

Saudi Arabia had been expected to raise about $10 billion in the sale, people familiar with the matter said last month. - Bloomberg News

B2

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

MARKET OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,602.66 ...............5,583.98 ................... 5,592.88 ................... 5,583.55....................9.33 ................... 0.17 Financial Index .................................... 7,306.02 ...............7,253.90 ................... 7,284.54 ....................7,251.41..................33.13 ...................0.46 Industrial Index .................................... 7,214.15 ...............7,190.89 ....................7,194.02 ................... 7,198.92..................-4.90 .................. -0.07 Services Index .......................................3,047.13 ............... 3,037.75 ....................3,047.13 ....................3,037.75....................9.38 ................... 0.31 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................858.62 ..................855.97 .......................857.58 ...................... 858.86.................. -1.28 .................. -0.15 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 9,476,830.................... 2,248,312 .....................670 ............... 17,333,905,347 ................20 ........................6 .................... 18 .........................44

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

REGULAR MARKET .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 854,343 ..........156,217..................... 53 ............0.180 ........... 0.184 ...........0.177 ............0.183 ............. 0.175............ 0.008............. 4.571 ................0.183 ..............0.182...................0.183...................36,600,000.........0.100

MSM index ends higher

OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 1,446,921 ......213,903.....................60 ............0.149 ........... 0.149 ...........0.145 ........... 0.148 ............. 0.143............ 0.005............. 3.497 ................0.147 .............. 0.147...................0.148..................237,465,902........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES .......................................... 137,057 ............ 25,356........................9 ............0.185 ........... 0.185 ...........0.185 ............0.185 .............0.180 ........... 0.005............. 2.778 ................0.185 ..............0.184...................0.185................... 11,322,791 .........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 129,000 ...............7,611........................5 ........... 0.059 ...........0.059 ...........0.059........... 0.059 .............0.058 ............0.001 ............. 1.724 ................0.059..............0.059...................0.060 ..................12,221,932 .........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES .......................................14,330 ...............3,044........................5 ............0.210 ........... 0.215 ...........0.210........... 0.212 .............0.209 ........... 0.003............. 1.435 ................0.215 ..............0.212...................0.220 ..................63,340,867.........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ...................................20,969 ...............4,865........................5 ........... 0.230 ...........0.236 ...........0.230........... 0.232 .............0.230 ........... 0.002............. 0.870 ................0.236..............0.233...................0.235..................342,149,256........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ....................... 254,000............60,811..................... 32 ........... 0.239 ...........0.240 ...........0.239........... 0.239 .............0.237 ........... 0.002.............0.844 ................0.239..............0.238...................0.239...................22,714,560 .........0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ............................... 286,700 ............47,583......................14 ............0.166 ........... 0.166 ...........0.165 ............0.166 ............. 0.165.............0.001 ............. 0.606 ................0.166 .............. 0.165...................0.166................... 49,171,471 .........0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................41,487 ............28,203......................17 ............0.676 ...........0.680 ...........0.676........... 0.680 .............0.676 ........... 0.004............. 0.592 ................0.680..............0.676...................0.680 ................ 442,642,076 .......0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 803,619 .........336,848..................... 86 ............0.418 ...........0.422 ...........0.416 ........... 0.420 ............. 0.418............ 0.002............. 0.478 ................0.422..............0.422...................0.424 ............... 1,048,425,108 ......0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION .........................137,681 .......... 209,112.....................44 ............1.515 ........... 1.550 ........... 1.515 ........... 1.520 ............. 1.515 ............ 0.005.............0.330 ................ 1.515 ...............1.515...................1.545................1,140,000,000 ......0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ............................................................... 3,100 ...............1,892........................3 ........... 0.620 ...........0.620 ...........0.608............0.616 ............. 0.616............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.608..............0.604...................0.616 ...................33,880,000.........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 181,135 ............ 30,964..................... 28 ............0.172 ........... 0.173 ...........0.170 ............0.171 ............. 0.171 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.170 ...............0.171...................0.172...................29,925,420.........0.100

The top gainer was OIFC, up 4.57 per cent,

OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ............................ 4,700 ............... 1,081........................1 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.230........... 0.230 .............0.230 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.230..............0.225...................0.230 .................. 28,726,531 .........0.100

while Ominvest was the top loser with a loss of

OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ............................. 1,000 ................... 111........................1 ............0.111 ............0.111 ............ 0.111 ............0.111.............. 0.111 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................ 0.111 .............. 0.110................... 0.115 .................... 6,531,597 ..........0.100

OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE .........................................................3,000 ...................471........................1 ............0.157 ........... 0.157 ...........0.157 ........... 0.160 .............0.160 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.157 ............. 0.000...................0.157 ...................52,208,510 .........0.100

OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL.................................................2,900 ..................203........................1 ........... 0.070 ...........0.070 ...........0.070........... 0.070 .............0.070 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.070..............0.069...................0.070...................12,250,000.........0.100

3.46 per cent.

OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER..................................................38,628 ............... 7,341........................6 ............0.190 ........... 0.191............0.190........... 0.190 .............0.190 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.190..............0.190...................0.200 .................128,228,612........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ........................................................64,472 ...............9,348........................8 ............0.145 ........... 0.145 ...........0.145 ............0.145 ............. 0.145............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.145 ..............0.142...................0.145..................212,077,212 ........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ....................................................... 60,000 ............ 88,876........................6 ............1.500 ........... 1.500 ...........1.480........... 1.480 .............1.500 ...........-0.020 ............-1.333................1.500..............1.480...................1.500................. 296,000,000 .......0.100

MUSCAT: Despite low volume, gains in banking stocks drove the MSM 30 Index to 5,592.88 points, up by 0.17 per cent.

However, the MSM Sharia Index ended at 857.58 points, down by 0.15 per cent.

Bank Sohar was the most active in terms of volume while Oman International Development and Investment Co (Ominvest) led in terms of turnover.

The top gainer was OIFC, up by 4.57 per cent while Ominvest was the top loser with loss of 3.46 per cent.

As many as 670 trades were executed on Wednesday, generating turnover of OMR2.25 million with 9.48 million shares changing hands. Out of 44 traded securities, 20 advanced, 6 declined and 18 remained unchanged.

Omani investors switched to net buyers to the tune of OMR288,000 worth of shares, while foreign investors were net sellers at OMR228,000, followed

by GCC and Arab investors, who sold stocks amounting to OMR60,000.

Financial Index Financial Index advanced 0.46 per cent to end at 7,284.54 points.

Bank Sohar, Global Financial Investment, Takaful Oman, HSBC Bank and Al Madina Investment gained 3.50 per cent, 3.05 per cent, 2.94 per cent, 2.63 per cent and 1.72 per cent respectively.

Ominvest, Oman United Insurance and DBIH declined 3.46 per cent, 1.72 per cent and 1.12 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index declined by 0.07 per cent to end at 7,194.02 points. Oman Fisheries, Oman Flour Mills and Al Anwar Ceramics had gains of 3.45 per cent, 0.62 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively. Raysut Cement and Oman Cement declined 1.77 per cent and 1.33 per cent respectively.

Services Index closed at 3,047.13 points with a gain of 0.31 per cent.

Oman Investment and Finance Co., Al Jazeera Services, Renaissance Services, Port Services and Ooredoo increased by 4.57 per cent, 2.78 per cent, 1.44 per cent, 0.84 per cent and 0.59 per cent respectively. - United Securities

OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 762,696 ......... 217,484.....................42 ........... 0.286 ...........0.286 ...........0.282........... 0.285 .............0.290 ...........-0.005 ............-1.724................0.286..............0.287...................0.290 ..................28,500,000 ........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ..............................................................6,000 ...............2,664........................3 ........... 0.444 ...........0.444 ...........0.444 .......... 0.444 .............0.452 ...........-0.008 ............-1.770................0.444..............0.446...................0.450..................146,907,483 ........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 698,470 .........350,935..................... 26 ........... 0.508 ...........0.508 ...........0.500........... 0.502 .............0.520 ...........-0.018 ........... -3.462 ...............0.500..............0.500...................0.508 ................. 319,167,026 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 5,952,208.. 1,804,922...................456 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......23........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

PARALLEL MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ..................................................... 215,291 .............12,917......................12 ........... 0.060 ...........0.060 ...........0.060........... 0.060 .............0.058 ........... 0.002............. 3.448 ................0.060..............0.059...................0.060 ...................7,500,000 ..........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT .................. 77,663 ............. 13,138........................8 ............0.165 ........... 0.170 ...........0.165 ............0.169 .............0.164............ 0.005............. 3.049 ................0.170 ..............0.169...................0.170...................33,800,000.........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ..............................30,863 ...............4,321........................9 ............0.140 ........... 0.140 ...........0.140........... 0.140 ............. 0.136............ 0.004............. 2.941 ................0.140..............0.140...................0.144...................14,000,000.........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 926,826 .........108,806..................... 50 ............0.114 ........... 0.120 ...........0.114 ............0.117 ............. 0.114............ 0.003............. 2.632 ................0.118 .............. 0.118................... 0.119 ..................234,036,596 .......0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 118,586 .............14,575..................... 23 ............0.124 ........... 0.124 ...........0.122............0.123 ............. 0.121............ 0.002............. 1.653 ................0.122..............0.122...................0.123...................11,070,000 .........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING............ 64,000 ...............8,320........................4 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.130........... 0.130 .............0.128............ 0.002............. 1.563 ................0.130 ..............0.126...................0.130................... 15,843,750 .........0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ....................................................5,515 ...............3,574........................2 ........... 0.648 ...........0.648 ...........0.648........... 0.648 .............0.644 ........... 0.004............. 0.621 ................0.648..............0.648...................0.652................. 102,060,000 .......0.100 OM0000002275 ...........SHELL OMAN MARKETING ...................................10,000 .............19,550........................5 ............1.955 ........... 1.955 ...........1.955 ............1.955 .............1.950............ 0.005............. 0.256 ................1.955 .............. 1.955...................2.090 .................185,725,000 ........0.100 OM0000001152 ............OMAN NATIONAL ENGINE. INVT. ......................23,807 ............... 3,571........................2 ............0.150 ........... 0.150 ...........0.150 ........... 0.150 .............0.150............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.150 .............. 0.145...................0.155 ...................15,000,000.........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 300,000...........78,000......................12 ........... 0.260...........0.260 ...........0.260 .......... 0.260 .............0.260 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.260..............0.258...................0.260 ...................5,460,000 ..........0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. ..........5,491 ...............7,907........................6 ............1.440 ........... 1.440 ...........1.440........... 1.440 .............1.440 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.440..............1.440...................0.000 ..................99,360,000.........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 265,617............ 25,600.....................24 ........... 0.096 ...........0.097 ...........0.096........... 0.096 .............0.096 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.096..............0.096...................0.097................... 27,838,141 .........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 1,341,056 ......106,908..................... 36 ........... 0.079 ...........0.080 ...........0.079........... 0.080 .............0.080 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.079..............0.079...................0.080 ................ 120,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK..................................................5,000 ...................315........................1 ........... 0.063 ...........0.063 ...........0.063........... 0.062 .............0.062 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.063..............0.062...................0.063.................. 62,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH................................................56,690 .............13,492........................3 ........... 0.238 ...........0.238 ...........0.238........... 0.238 .............0.238 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.238..............0.236...................0.238..................227,188,124 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................... 19,388 ...............3,690........................7 ............0.190 ........... 0.191............0.190........... 0.190 .............0.190 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.190..............0.190...................0.192.................. 135,737,205 ........0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ........................10,000 ..................880........................2 ........... 0.088 ...........0.088 ...........0.088........... 0.088 .............0.089 ...........-0.001 ............-1.124................0.088..............0.088...................0.090 ...................2,640,000..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 3,475,793 ......425,564...................206 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ...... 17........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

THIRD QUARTER

INDIAN MARKETS

China’s economy grows by 6.7% BEIJING: China’s economy expanded at a steady 6.7 per cent in the third quarter and looks set to hit Beijing’s full-year target, fueled by stronger government spending, record bank lending and a red-hot property market that are adding to its growing pile of debt.

The new data painted a picture of an economy that is slowly stabilising but increasingly dependent on government spending and a housing boom for growth, as private investment and exports remain stubbornly weak.

Some economists believe Beijing has had to ‘double down’ on stimulus this year to meet its official growth range of 6.5 to 7 per cent, and say the government’s obsession with meeting hard targets may hurt both planned reforms and the long-term health of the world’s second-largest economy.

“So far this year they have clearly chosen to do everything they can to meet the growth targets, and now there is a little bit of an upward surprise from the housing market which actually

CONSTRUCTION BOOMS: Property investment growth ticked up to 7.8 per cent in September, and sales surged 34 per cent, though new construction starts fell 19.4 per cent. – Bloomberg News

will help them with GDP growth this year,” said Louis Kuijs, head of Asia economics at Oxford Economics in Hong Kong.

“The question really is, is the leadership willing to move to somewhat lower growth targets in order to put growth on a more sustainable footing, or will it feel obliged to continue to hang on to those very high growth targets.”

The economy grew at the same

clip in the third quarter year-onyear as in the first and second quarters, as analysts polled had expected. Government infrastructure projects and the property boom have spurred prices and demand for raw materials and goods from cement and steel to furniture.

On a quarterly basis, it grew 1.8 per cent, again in line with expectations but easing slightly from the previous period.

Property market Economists believe the greatest near-term risk for China is a possible correction in the high-flying property market, which accounts for about 15 per cent of GDP. Real estate investment accelerated in September and home sales soared, highlighting persistent investor demand even as more cities tighten measures to curb prices.

Property investment growth ticked up to 7.8 per cent in September on-year, and property sales surged 34 per cent, though new construction starts fell 19.4 per cent, suggesting sentiment among builders may be shifting as the government looks to cool the buying frenzy. A wave of restrictions imposed on buyers in major cities since early October has resulted in a sharp drop in sales and authorities are stepping up pressure on speculators. Shanghai said on Tuesday it had punished some property agencies for falsifying contracts and had launched probes into some developers suspected of raising prices without authorisation. - Bloomberg News

Sensex falters; rupee firm MUMBAI: After its biggest single-day gain in nearly five months in the previous session, market on Wednesday caved in meekly as the Sensex closed the day lower after investors booked profit and global conditions stayed mixed.

Much of the profit-booking happened in FMCG, realty and financial stocks after yesterday’s biggest single-day rebound in close to five months. Power, PSU, oil and gas, healthcare, consumer durables and IT, however, found some takers, which cushioned the fall.

The 30-share index resumed higher and ended at 27,984.37, down by 66.51 points, or 0.24 per cent. It had posted a rally of about 521 points, its biggest single-session gain in nearly five months, on Tuesday.

The 50-share Nifty went down 18.80 points, or 0.22 per cent, to 8,659.10. The broader markets outperformed the Sensex, with the small cap index rising 0.55 per cent and the mid-cap 0.06 per cent.

A total of 14 scrips out of the 30-share Sensex pack ended lower. ITC plunged the most by falling 2.44 per cent, followed by IC-

ICI Bank (2 per cent). Others that pulled the market lower include Hero MotoCorp (1.28 per cent), Hindustan Unilever (1 per cent), SBI (0.82 per cent) and Asian Paints (0.65 per cent).

Wipro, Lupin, Adani Ports, GAIL, Power Grid, Sun Pharma, ONGC, NTPC and Dr Reddy’s held up as they ended higher by up to 2.74 per cent.

Rupee gains The rupee gained further ground against the American currency and ended up by 5 paise at 66.68 on sustained selling of dollar by banks and exporters.

The local currency resumed higher at 66.68 as compared to overnight closing level of 66.73 at the Interbank Foreign Exchange market and moved higher to 66.66 on continued dollar unwinding back by higher local equities.

But later lost momentum and fell back to hit a low of 66.77 due to fresh dollar demand from leading corporates and foreign banks before rebounding to end at 66.68, revealing a modest rise of 5 paise, or 0.07 per cent. - PTI

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

B3

MARKET AUTOMOTIVE

Renault-Nissan’s Ghosn to become Mitsubishi chief TOKYO: Nissan Motor and Renault chairman Carlos Ghosn is set to add that title at Mitsubishi Motors, according to people with knowledge of the matter, putting him on track to become the first executive to head three different automakers at the same time.

Nissan is acquiring a 34 per cent stake in Mitsubishi Motors, which sought a rescue following an admission that it improperly measured for fuel economy and manipulated testing data.

Mitsubishi Motors on Wednesday forecast a steeper loss, its first in eight years, due to costs tied to the scandal.

The Tokyo-based automaker said the net loss for the fiscal year ending March 31 will probably balloon to ¥240 billion ($2.3 billion) from an earlier prediction for a deficit of ¥145 billion.

Public-private-partnership to be outlined next week Oman’s strategic economic plan and

This is a timely conference that will bring together key stakeholders in the public and private sectors to discuss and facilitate investment opportunities that will progress the Sultanate from an infrastructure and economic development point of view

the priority areas for investment through publicprivate-partnership will be outlined at the Outlook Oman conference on

Dr Ali Al Sunaidy

October 24

Minister of commerce and industry, Oman Alliance A Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance would create the world’s fourth-largest automotive group.

Ghosn, 62, who is both chairman and chief executive officer at Nissan and Renault, is highly regarded in the auto industry for being able to turn around flagging companies and is known for his sometimes brutal cost cutting.

After his radical makeovers of French automaker Renault SA beginning in the 1990s and Nissan in the early 2000s, Ghosn earned the nickname ‘Le Cost Killer’.

Taking over as Nissan’s president, he brought the then-struggling company back from the brink by breaking up its so-called keiretsu network of suppliers, shutting plants and leveraging an alliance with Renault. - Bloomberg News

Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman’s strategic economic plan and the priority areas for investment through publicprivate-partnership will be outlined by Dr Ali Al Sunaidy, the minister of commerce and industry, at the Outlook Oman conference, on October 24.

In the keynote address at MEED’s Outlook Oman forum at the Shangri-La Hotel in Muscat, Dr Al Sunaidy will outline the sectors where the government is prioritising for investment opportunities through public-privatepartnerships (PPP) and finance raised from the local and international banking market.

“This is a timely conference

that will bring together key stakeholders in the public and private sector to discuss and facilitate investment opportunities that will progress the Sultanate from an infrastructure and economic development point of view,” said Dr Ali Al Sunaidy.

He will be supported by Hamoud Sangour Al Zadjali, executive president of Central Bank of Oman and more than 25 other speakers and panelists representing the government and business sector.

As Oman enters its ninth fiveyear development plan, a key indicator of the Vision 2020 programme’s achievement will be the launch of projects priortised to

E L E C T R I C I T Y G E N E R AT I O N

achieve the goal of economic diversification.

With several projects in the pipeline, Muscat is focused on establishing the public-private-partnership (PPP) framework to solve the funding challenge and attract much-needed investment.

Power, water production The Outlook Oman Forum will discuss these seminal developments in the detail and examine plans for further expansions in Oman’s power and water production capacity and its domestic transport and telecommunications infrastructure.

The one-day programme will

also take a look at initiatives to boost tourism, including the opening of the new terminal at Muscat International Airport this year and the expansion of Oman Air’s global network.

Packed into a single day, the forum has designed an agenda to provide a complete outlook of the $209 billion projects market with speakers lined up to discuss the Sultanate of Oman’s progress and plans for its non-oil manufacturing and service industries, housing and real estate projects and further expansions in education and healthcare.

“This is one of the most important conferences MEED has ever

held,” said Richard Thompson, editorial director at MEED. “In common with all oil producing countries, Oman is facing major economic challenges. Dr Al Sunaidy is driving an ambitious economic reform programme in response. It will touch every aspect of business in the Sultanate and we are honored and privileged to have his support in this important event.”

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OUTLOOK

Musandam power project to Saudi Arabian economy to rebound start operation by early 2017 in 2017 as austerity drive eases: IMF Times News Service MUSCAT: Musandam Power Company’s (MPC) gas-fired 120 megawatt power project, which is first such plant in Musandam, will start commercial operation by early 2017, the company said.

Construction of the Musandam Independent Power Project is currently in its final stages, with a team from Oman Oil Facilities Development Company, one of the main verticals of Oman Oil Company responsible for executing power sector infrastructure and related facilities, visiting the site recently.

The team reviewed preparations for a planned trial run of the plant. They also met the newly enrolled operators and reviewed efforts to suitably prepare them for the operational phase. The company welcomed the first batch of the Omani power plant operators at its Tibat facilities in Wilayat Bukha, Musandam Governorate.

The operators, part of a team of well-qualified Omanis recruited to operate the plant, will be put through an intensive training programme in the weeks and months leading up to commercial launch in the first half of 2017.

Commenting on the significance of the Musandam IPP, Sultan Al Burtmani, acting executive managing director of Oman Oil Facilities Development Company, said: “In addition to serving as a vital and stable source of local electricity supply, MPC will be geared to meet the growing electricity demands of Musandam Governorate as it witnesses a new phase of development.”

“We are proud to receive the first batch of the Omani opera-

GEARING UP: Musandam Power Company welcomed the first

batch of the Omani power plant operators at its Tibat facilities in Wilayat Bukha, Musandam Governorate. The operators will be put through an intensive training programme. - Supplied picture

tors whom we count on to focus on acquiring the required technical knowledge and skills that will be delivered through a rigorous training programme conducted by the operating company,” added Al Burtmani.

Under an agreement concluded with MPC, Wärtsilä, a global leader in complete lifecycle power solutions, secured a contract to design, procure and manage the construction of the 120MW gasfired power plant, as well as provide ongoing operation and maintenance for 5 years.

Training programme Wärtsilä is also obliged to carry out the training programme aimed at preparing Omanis for the management of the plant operation. It is anticipated that Omanisation percentage of the plant will reach 90 per cent in the next five years.

The six-month training programme formulated by Wärtsilä will cover on-the job training, enabling the newly appointed opera-

tors to take part in the commissioning phase of the plant in the coming months. Another training programme designed to develop engineers at a supervisory level will be conducted at Wärtsilä’s training centre in Turku, Finland.

The supervisors will be selected according to their performance during this training period.

The dual fuel plant will use natural gas as the primary fuel, with light fuel oil as a back-up resource to ensure uninterrupted power production. Electricity output will be transmitted to the existing medium voltage grid through the new 132KV transmission lines being built by the Rural Areas Electricity Company. The project’s 120MW generation capacity will help meet demand growth in Musandam Governorate.

It is worth highlighting that Musandam IPP was set up in realisation of Oman Oil Company’s goal of adding value to Oman’s energy sector and thereby advancing the nation’s development.

DUBAI: Pace of Saudi Arabia’s austerity drive will ease in 2017, a senior International Monetary Fund (IMF) official said, helping the Kingdom’s economy recover after a sharp slowdown this year.

The slump in oil prices has prompted the government to cut spending to curb a budget deficit that ballooned to about 15 per cent of gross domestic product last year. Officials have delayed payment to contractors, reduced energy subsidies and trimmed the take-home pay of public servants.

With the private sector heavily dependent on public spending, nonoil economic growth will slow to 0.3 per cent this year, a rate that is “barely positive,” according to Masood Ahmed, the IMF Middle East chief.

“Next year we see a little bit of an improvement compared to this year, in part because the big consolidation would be a little easier,” Ahmed said in an interview in Dubai. The fund expects non-oil GDP to expand 2.6 per cent in 2017.

Overall growth will be 2 per cent.

The forecast didn’t include the impact of the government’s recent decision to freeze bonuses for state employees and cut the salaries of ministers by 20 per cent in the Islamic year starting in October. The measures may be a “further downward drag on growth,’’ Ahmed said.

Economic shakeup Saudi Arabia is undergoing the biggest economic shakeup in the kingdom’s history in an attempt to reduce its reliance on oil.

The government aims to raise more than $100 billion in non-oil

revenue a year by 2020, through measures including value-added taxation, as it seeks to balance the budget.

“This kind of transformation is never easy,” Ahmed said. “It takes some time to implement and I can see that a year into it people are still adjusting to it in a varying degrees.”

The IMF expects the budget deficit to narrow to 9.5 per cent of GDP in 2017 from 13 per cent this year.

A projected improvement in oil prices would have an impact on the economy “next year more than this year,” Ahmed said.

- Bloomberg News

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PAKISTAN

Senator moves bill to regulate movement of foreign currency According to data provided by the central bank in August this year to a parliamentary committee, from 2013 through 2015, Pakistanis have sent $5.7 billion abroad through their foreign currency accounts

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla has moved the Bill after the federal government backtracked from its announcement to review all the existing laws that allowed people to transfer money abroad and evade taxes

ISLAMABAD: As transfer of dollars abroad through banking channels peaked to $2 billion last year due to a lax 1992 law, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla has moved a Bill to withdraw unprecedented immunities enjoyed by foreign currency account holders.

However, State Bank of Pakistan has opposed the former finance minister’s “the Protection of Economic Reforms (Amendment) Bill 2016”, saying, “The proposed law appears inspired by India”.

Contrary to the central bank’s take on a serious parliamentary business, India’s foreign currency regime is said to be one of the best in the world, according to independent legal and tax experts.

Senator Mandviwalla, elected on a Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP ) ticket, has moved the bill after the federal government backtracked

from its announcement to review all the existing laws that allowed people to transfer money abroad and evade taxes.

The proposed amendments have taken care of genuine foreign currency account holders and are seeking to cut the benefits of only those who are transferring billions of dollars abroad without any check.

Proposed Senator Mandviwalla has proposed that authorised dealers in Pakistan — banks, shipping and airlines companies, insurance companies, exporters of goods and services, students studying abroad and visitors abroad – may keep and operate foreign currency accounts.

He has suggested that all other individuals and entities should not hold foreign currency accounts, as these have become main source of transferring money abroad and evading taxes.

Mandviwalla moved the bill in

the Senate on October 3.

The Senate Chairman has now sent the proposed piece of legislation to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance for discussion and voting. The bill was on the agenda of the standing committee that met on Tuesday under the chair of Mandviwalla.

“Millions of dollars are transferred on a daily basis abroad through foreign currency accounts opened under Economic Reforms Act (PERA) of 1992 and nobody asks any question about the purpose of these transactions,” said Mandviwalla while explaining the rationale behind these amendments.

He said that a branch of a private commercial bank in Peshawar was found transferring $20 million a day in 2013 from nonbusiness accounts.

The PML-N government had enacted the PERA in 1992 that, according to legal and tax experts, was the root cause behind most fiscal crimes committed today.

M I L I TA N T G R O U P

Two held for spreading IS propaganda in Peshawar PESHAWAR: Police arrested two men suspected of distributing pamphlets for IS following a raid in the northwestern city of Peshawar, officials said on

Wednesday, amid lingering fears that the militant group was making inroads in Pakistan.

Last month, the military said that it had stemmed IS’s attempts

to expand in the country, having arrested more than 300 people suspected of plotting attacks against government, diplomatic and civilian targets. -Reuters

A9

It has become evident now that the drafters of the 1992 law wanted to favour someone while enacting the PERA, said Senator Mohsin Aziz of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI).

Data According to data provided by the central bank in August this year to a parliamentary committee, from 2013 through 2015, Pakistanis have sent $5.7 billion abroad through their foreign currency accounts.

During 2010-2011, $1 billion was sent abroad through foreign currency accounts (FCAs), which increased to $1.2 billion during 2011-12.

During 2012-13, the figure jumped to $1.9 billion, and was recorded at $2 billion by the end of 2015, according to the central bank.

Senator Mandviwalla has proposed amendments into section 4 and section 5 of the 1992 law.

Under section 4, he has pro-

posed that only authorised dealers, foreign branches, of Pakistani banks, shipping companies, airlines, insurance corporations incorporated in Pakistan and their subsidiaries, students, exporters and foreign visitors can open these accounts.

Mandviwalla has also proposed to replace section 5 that grants immunity from enquiry by tax department, immunity from wealth tax, income tax, zakat deduction, and allows the banks to keep the information of these account holders secret, with a new section.

“All other individuals and entities may become ineligible to open and maintain foreign currency accounts within and outside Pakistan,” if these amendments are accepted, according to a written response of the SBP submitted to the standing committee.

It further added that a question may also arise as to the legality of the existing foreign currency accounts.

“The proposed law appears inspired by India,” according to the central bank’s written comment that Senate Secretariat reproduced in a brief circulated among the committee members.

The SBP further noted that no amendments were required in the law. The PERA of 1992 prescribes no limit on funds transfer through foreign currency accounts to and from Pakistan on an individual, according to central bank officials.

They said money can even be transferred without the permission of the central bank.

The SBP officials said FCAs are not exempted from income tax and the Federal Board of Revenue can question over taxes paid on the money deposited in these accounts.

However, FBR Member Policy Rehamtullah Wazir informed the committee that the banks were not providing information about foreign currency account depositors. - Express Tribune

STRENGTHEN TRADE TIES

Pakistan urges US to ease travel advisory ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has urged the United States to revise its travel advisory pertaining to the country in a bid to promote a softer and more investor-friendly image to US citizens.

This request was put forth

by Commerce Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan, during the 8th Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council Meeting on Tuesday, aimed at securing preferential access to the textile market and an easy-visa regime for exporters of IT-related services to further strengthen trade ties between the two countries.

The US delegation, led by United States Trade Representatives (USTR) Ambassador Michael Froman, included US Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale among others.

Speaking during the inaugural session, Khan said that there are several reasons for which Pakistan deserves preferential access to the US textile market.

“Several international institutions have substantiated Pakistan’s stable economy, while the security situation has also greatly improved. Pakistan is now a lot safer than it was a few years ago,” the minister said. Speaking on the occasion, Forman was of the view that TIFA serves as a premier forum for advancing our trade investment relationship.

“Current economic relationship with Pakistan is just a fraction of what it could be and with TIFA we can seek that potential,” he said.

The ambassador was of the view that under the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, important structural reforms have been undertaken in Pakistan.

These included economic and energy reforms, which have enhanced the overall economic growth and lowered inflation providing a conducive business environment for further strengthening trade ties between the two countries, said the ambassador. -Express Tribune

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B5

ROUND-UP

Second phase of ‘Sentra Mileage Challenge’ held

PROMOTION

Alizz gives customers opportunity to postpone finance repayments for up to three months

The enjoyable mileage challenge took off from the Nissan showrooms in Sur and Salalah as part of the CSI initiative of SBA

MUSCAT: To create awareness about Nissan Sentra’s high fuel efficiency, Nissan Oman, from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA), orgainsed the second phase of ‘Sentra Mileage Challenge’ in Sur and Salalah recently.

The ‘Sentra Mileage Challenge’ was earlier organised at Qurum and Sohar.

The winner of this challenge managed a mileage of 28km per litre of petrol. The enjoyable mileage challenge took off from the Nissan showrooms in Sur and Salalah as part of the CSI initiative of SBA, says a press release.

The event saw participation from eager Sentra customers who had to drive the cars on a predesigned route covering nearly 150km. The car that got maximum mileage was declared the winner.

Expressing happiness over the response to event, a senior official of

SBA said, “We are delighted with the success of the first and second phase of ‘Sentra Mileage Challenge.”

Explaining that Nissan Sentra delivers exceptional fuel efficiency, while maintaining seamless performance, the official added, “The GSO has also certified Sentra’s mileage at 18.1km per litre.

Proudly wearing the Nissan Pure Drive badge, Sentra is living proof of Nissan’s commitment to providing more environmentally friendly and fuel efficient cars.”

Sentra is now available across

Oman at an affordable EMI starting at OMR100 and assured cash gift of OMR1,250.

Apart from this you also get free registration (private cars), free 10,000km periodic maintenance service (or 1 year whichever is earlier) and free extended warranty upto six years.

SBA is largely committed to supporting Nissan’s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman.

F O O D S A F E T Y C U LT U R E

Pizza Hut participates in Global Handwashing Day MUSCAT: Pizza Hut reinforces hygiene as a pillar of its food safety culture by participating in the Global Handwashing Day, an annual initiative by World Health Organisation, observed on October 15. The Global Handwashing Day is a commemoration of international efforts for a healthier and more hygienic future.

In observance of the Global Handwashing Day, 38 Pizza Hut outlets across Oman reaffirmed their commitment to maintain high level of hygiene and deliver ‘trust in every bite’ to customers. The best of the international standards for hand wash is maintained at all Pizza Hut locations through a specially designed hand washing station, equipped with anti-bacterial soap, sanitiser, warm running water at 38 degrees Celsius, tissue and a foot-pedal

dustbin, says a press release.

“Hand washing is an integral part of our quality assurance practice. We adhere to the 20-second hand wash rule, post the application of the anti-bacterial soap, followed by a warm water rinse; patting the hands dry with a tissue and using the same to close the water tap. This practice is crucial

for the restaurant business, before and after food service, as it keeps germs and diseases at bay,” stated Alex Chacko, Quality Assurance manager, Pizza Hut Oman.

More than 250 internal audits were conducted within Pizza Hut. In addition, unannounced swab testing was carried out by Atyab Foodtech, a leading ISO 17025

certified food technology institute; appointed to assess the restaurant chain’s commitment to hygiene standards.

“Cleanliness and hygiene are important to Pizza Hut not only because it is the right thing to do, but also because hygiene is a pillar of development and health. Hand washing is an easy and affordable practise that prevents infections and saves lives. At Pizza Hut, we work towards delivering customer experience that surpass all expectations. In doing so, we try to set measurable goals with respect to product, people and the planet. As part of this commitment, the observance of Global Handwashing Day, aims to instil hand washing awareness to raise the food safety culture in our outlets,” stated Yogesh Shah, general manager, Khimji Restaurant Division.

MUSCAT: Alizz Islamic Bank has announced a promotional offer allowing customers to take repayment breaks for up to two to three months on the various finance options offered by the bank.

Customers who want to apply for Ijarah Muntahia Bittamleek (Ready Property) can take advantage of deferred repayments for the first three months while those looking for Auto Finance (Murabaha), Personal Finance (Goods Murabaha) and ‘Services Ijarah’ can enjoy the benefit for the first two months, says a press release.

This offer comes in line with commitment of Alizz to constantly provide customers with various facilities. Once a customer applies for a personal finance and signs the contract with the bank, he or she is entitled to a two- or three-month repayment break for any product that is covered by the offer.

The bank will pay the first two/ three premiums of the life takaful insurance upon signing of the contract. ‘Takaful’ refers to a type of Islamic insurance product in which it is the responsibility of individuals to cooperate and protect one another.

The premiums covering the remaining period of the contract will be paid by the customer, depending on the type of contract he has signed with the bank.

‘Ready Property’ offer is available for customers since October 10 and will be valid until December 31, while the Auto Finance (Murabaha), ‘Goods Murabaha’ and ‘Services Ijarah’ offers, which have come into effect from October 16, will be also be valid until December 31.

The bank’s current customers as well as anyone who wishes to transfer their accounts to Alizz are entitled to these exclusive offers, which are in line with the Sharia principles.

The ‘Ready Property’ option comes with a number of features and benefits. It is open to Omani nationals as well as resident ex-

patriates, whether salaried or self-employed. The approval process is fast and easy while the documentation is simple.

The settlement term can be up to 25 years with maximum financing of 80 per cent of the property value or OMR450,000.

The minimum salary required is OMR300 only for government employees and OMR350 for private sector employees.

The Auto Finance option is based on the principle of ‘Murabaha’, a contract that involves the sale of an item on a deferred basis. The bank purchases the car at the customer’s request and promise and sells it to the customer at cost price and the agreed profit rate, concluding the Murabaha sale contract.

The car is delivered immediately and the payment is made through easy instalments.

The Auto Finance option is also available to Omani nationals as well as resident expatriates, whether salaried or self-employed.

The settlement term can be up to 84 months with maximum financing of 80 per cent of the car value, with competitive profit rates and fast and easy approval with simple documentation.

The minimum salary required is OMR300 only for government employees and OMR350 for private sector employees.

‘Goods Murabaha’ is designed to help a customer finance his modern lifestyle’s needs, be it furniture, electronics, electric equipment and other household appliances at the most competitive and flexible prices.

‘Services Ijarah’ provides customers with varied financial solutions to pursue their education or meet their wedding expenses. The bank will have agreements with various service providers whereby it leases the services required by the customer directly from the provider and subleases it to the customer on the basis of ‘Ijarah’.

10TH OUTLET

SPAR expands its presence in Oman, opens new outlet MUSCAT: SPAR, world’s largest retail food chain with a big fresh heart, launched its 10th outlet in Oman, following up on strategic expansion plans for the Sultanate.

The new outlet was opened at Darsait recently, says a press release.

Reiterating the brand’s commitment to fresh, value, choice and excellent service, Sridhar Moosapeta, CEO, said, “Since its launch, SPAR Oman has quickly garnered a reputation for being one of the most trusted names in the Oman’s retail sector.

We have been setting bench-

marks for product quality and efficient customer service based on a tradition that we have perfected for over eight decades, worldwide.”

He added that the new outlet at Darsait was part of the brand’s strategic goals to expand its retail network across Oman and grow its image as trustworthy name in high quality retail.

Commenting on the launch of SPAR’s new outlet, Devendra Kumar, head of Retail Division, SPAR Oman, said, “With over 12,500 stores in 40 countries SPAR Oman brings customers

global offerings along with the best of local produce.

“Our team is working relentlessly towards creating the highest value across our entire product range.

Freshness, value, choice and superior customer service forms the bedrock of our retail strategy at all our outlets.”

Other prominent areas in the Sultanate where SPAR has established its presence include – Bausher, Al Khuwair, Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Mumtaz, MBD, Muttrah, ISD, SPAR Express at Al Khoud and Mawelah North.

B6

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

ROUND-UP Fahmy Furniture unveils a world of quality products in new showroom

INAUGURATION: The new showroom was inaugurated by Dr Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce and Industry, in the presence of a number of ministers, top government officials, a large number of businessmen and the management and executives of Fahmy Furniture. – Shabin E./TIMES OF OMAN

The product portfolio at Fahmy Furniture has a wide spectrum which enables it to plan and furnish all areas of office and domestic needs

SHAHZAD RAZA shahzad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Fahmy Furniture reached another milestone by moving to a much larger showroom in Azaiba with a wide variety of quality home and office furniture and accessories.

The new showroom was inaugurated by Dr Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce and Industry, in the presence of a num-

ber of ministers, top government officials, a large number of businessmen and the management and executives of Fahmy Furniture.

Said bin Saleh Al Hinai, managing director, Fahmy Furniture, welcomed the dignitaries and the distinguished guests who were taken around the showroom to give them a glimpse of the worldclass products and brands Fahmy has brought under one roof.

“Having shown total commit-

ment to meeting our customers’ wide and varied preferences, Fahmy Furniture has become one of the favourite places for furniture shopping in Oman,” said the managing director.

Expressing his view on the occasion, Saif Saleh Al Hinai, director, Fahmy Furniture, said: “It’s a special occasion for us and we are obviously happy to have moved to a bigger and better premises.”

J. S. Charles, general manager, Fahmy Furniture, briefed the guests on an array of furnishing products that caught their attention. “Fahmy Furniture caters to both domestic and commercial spaces. It has proven its credibility and sincerity in building the relationship with its clients by providing the best products and services over the past forty years,” said Charles.

The product portfolio at

JA N A’ E N A L H A M R A P R I VAT E S C H O O L

Fahmy Furniture has a wide spectrum which enables it to plan and furnish all areas of office and domestic needs.

“Our ‘Office & Contract’ product line offers a range of applications for flooring, ceiling, wall covering, individual offices, open plan offices (workstations) and compact

office layouts, to furnishing management offices, communication and training areas.

“It is also complemented by a wide range of office chairs, break out furniture, lounge seatings, conferencing tables and storage systems. Our domestic product line offers a wide variety of living

room, dining room, bedroom and garden furniture along with fabrics and curtains, soft furnishings and accessories,” added the general manager.

What started as a small showroom in 1973 has gone on to become one-stop shop for all furnishing products for homes and offices.

MODERN COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & SCIENCE

MCBS continues to pursue accreditation

Zubair SEC launches new brand identity for its member school MUSCAT: Aimed at heralding a new chapter in its growth, Jana’en Al Hamra Private School has launched its new corporate logo and identity in collaboration with Zubair Small Enterprises Centre (Zubair SEC).

Kadhia Hamid Mohammed Al Nabhanih, founder and principal of Jana’en Al Hamra Private School, is a member of Zubair SEC, a social responsibility initiative of The Zubair Corporation. Jana’en Al Hamra Private School, which is located in Wilayat of Al Hamra in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate has kindergarten classes and caters to the needs of students in the wilayats of Al Hamra and Bahla.

The school has 11 classrooms and around 230 students studying in it, says a press release.

While the new identity has been designed to reflect a sense of change, it also ensures that the school will to remain true to its core values of building capacities of young learners. The school’s new brand identity gives it an energised identity that projects a contemporary outlook.

Explaining that the new branding captures the entire breadth of the school’s educational objectives, Lina Hussain, head of Communication & Social Impact at Zubair SEC said: “We understand the importance of branding and brand recognition for the success of our member’s businesses. In many occasions we noticed that the brand didn’t serve the business, products or services well enough and fell short to reflect the key promises the business intends to deliver to its target markets.

Hence, some of the facets of support we extend to our Direct Support Programme winners is a full design and creation of their corporate image and branding.”

Lina added, “Many of the members to whom we extended this service have been very happy with how well the new brands echoed in the market. The specialists behind the brands’ creation, who happen to be part of The Zubair Corporation’s team, work closely and collectively with our members and our advisers to fully grasp and understand the businesses before

creating the corporate image and brand for each.”

Expressing gratitude for the support, Kadhia said, “I am very happy with the new brand for our school. This has been much needed to reflect the ethos and mission of our school, and the Zubair SEC team have done a great job in creating that for us. They understood our mission very well, and they have engaged us in all stages of the brainstorming and execution till we reached together a design that we are all happy with.”

Earlier this year Zubair SEC launched new classroom at the school, designed and constructed as part of the benefits granted to Kadhia for being member of the Direct Support Programme (DSE) for year 2015. Zubair SEC had also sent Kadhia to participate in an experiential trip to Jordan.

The objective of the organised trip was to expose and acquaint her with international educational and schooling experiences and models through the success stories of reputed private schools in Jordan.

MUSCAT: Aiming for excellence, quality in education, and international recognition, the Modern College of Business & Science has been pursuing accreditation since 2004.

“Accreditation is a process of external quality review used by higher education to scrutinise colleges, universities, and educational programmes for quality assurance and quality improvement,” according to James Philip, a member of the accreditation committee at MCBS. For a higher education institution to be accredited within the Sultanate, it needs to meet the assessment standards of Oman Academic Accreditation Association (OAAA). The accreditation that MCBS is aiming to receive falls into two categories: Institutional Accreditation and Programme Accreditation.

For institutional accreditation,

OAAA representatives evaluate the institution’s governance, management, plans and strategies while programme accrediting body investigates the quality of the offered educational programmes run by the institution.

Prof Ahmed Al-Naamany, the dean of MCBS, said “The main achievement that MCBS gained out of the institutional accreditation exercise is not “accreditation” per se but the experience gained and the result of institutionalising international best practices, comprehensive documentation of its policies, processes, and procedures.

“Furthermore, the biggest prize of such a practice is the phenomenal team-work spirit that evolved from the college employees, who have tremendously worked in synchronous and cooperative manner. Individual actions to achieve the required

goals and strategy propel the college towards continuously meeting its vision and mission. It is inspirational to enjoy the result of this exercise as people-oriented organisational climate take hold and has resulted with goal oriented student-centric campus.”

An instructor in the Foundation Programme stated, “Going through the accreditation process in itself resulted in professional development as it created self-awareness and enhanced self-evaluation.”

Accreditation establishes trust between the accredited institution and the community; the community will always believe that such an educational institution calls for quality with no compromise.

In its assiduous commitment to innovation, professional and sustainable development, MCBS has already scheduled for the programme accreditation process to take place in 2018.

AWA R E N E S S

McDonald’s imparts ‘Safe driving saves lives’ message at Traffic Safety expo MUSCAT: As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, McDonald’s Oman (Al Daud Restaurants) takes part in Oman Traffic Safety event that will end today at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

Imparting the message ‘Safe driving saves lives’, the iconic McDonald’s brand helps raise greater awareness about the importance of road safety, says a press release.

McDonald’s Birdie character serves as the brand ambassador delighting young children from various schools with toys, balloons and traffic safety video presentation depicting the importance of safe driving.

McDonald’s involvement in such an event aims to help raise awareness about traffic safety in the country to help curb road accidents.

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ROUND-UP

Lulu all set to launch new outlet in Bidaya The newest addition highlights the group’s dedicated efforts to spread its network and connect with consumers even in the remotest parts of the country

MUSCAT: Lulu Group is all set to open another new hypermarket in Bidaya. The latest store will be inaugurated by Sheikh Hamoud bin Hamoud Al Hashmi – Wali of Suwaiq, in the presence of top officials and dignitaries, including officials and staff of Lulu.

The new branch is located

keeping in mind the convenience of the residents of this town with all its amenities is expected to be a landmark for residents of Bidaya and adjacent cities of Suwaiq, Mussanah and Rustaq. The latest addition will be the group’s 19th store in Oman and 131st store in the region. The newest addition highlights the group’s dedicated efforts to spread its network and connect with consumers even in the remotest parts of the country, says a press release.

Spread over an area of 75,000 square feet, the new store has an overall refreshing look and feel and is designed to offer the residents the best products at affordable prices. The store has separate

sections to cater to the everyday needs of the consumers ranging from fresh food, fruits and vegetables, fish, meat and dairy products to hot food, bakery and grocery.

There is also a department store with electronics and electrical products, home appliances and IT products. The new outlet will also boast of extensively laid out counters, attentive services and ample parking spaces for customers.

Commenting on the latest project Yusuffali M. A., chairman of Lulu Group, said, “I am glad to announce the inauguration of our new hypermarket in Bidaya. With the latest launch, we are indeed pleased to be offering the residents of Bidaya an opportunity to

experience the best at Lulu. We look forward to welcoming the residents of this beautiful town to our new store and delighting them with big savings.”

“Through the new venture, we aim to create maximum job opportunities for talented Omani nationals and thus support the economy. With the launch of every new store, Lulu aims to become a convenient, one-stop shopping destination where residents can find merchandise for the whole family at reasonable prices. Our overall mission is to make shopping a world class experience, and we are excited to bring that experience to Bidaya too,” he added.

Renowned for its customerfriendly approach and standards, the Lulu group bears the stamp of variety, modernity, quality and friendliness. With a group of welltrained staff and a professional management to oversee the operations, the multi-faceted business conglomerate has become a name synonymous to a seamlessly pleasant shopping experience.

SHARIAH-COMPLIANT

Maisarah’s Inventory Finance solution promises great benefits to customers mitment to provide best-in-class services and Shariah-compliant financial solutions.

“The Inventory Finance is based on the concept of Musawamah - a sale contract in which the price of the commodity is determined between the seller and the buyer with mutual consent. This product will enable customers to get cash by selling ready-for-sale goods. Customers can enjoy easy and simple process under this scheme with a

MUSCAT: Maisarah Islamic Banking Services introduced a matchless Inventory Finance product as a working capital solution for customers who want to sell goods on credit and require funds for operations during the credit period, says a press release.

Fawaz Rajab Al Ojaili, acting head of Maisarah’s Corporate Banking, elaborated on the product and the benefits it brings in to corporate customers, stressing on the Islamic window’s com-

maximum facility tenor of up to 12 months,” he said.

The Inventory Finance products add to the diverse range of Shariah-compliant financial solutions, innovative products and best-in-class services that Maisarah offers to cater to the needs of its corporate customers. These solutions include working capital finance, goods finance, diminishing musharakah, contract and project finance, guarantee services, letter of credit services and more.

A P P R E C I AT I O N AWA R D

Towell Auto honours Al Sumri Transport MUSCAT: Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributor of Higer range of buses and coaches in Oman, recently honoured Al Sumri Transport, the Sultanate’s leading conveyance solution providers, with an appreciation award for their continued support and association.

Riyadh Ali Sultan, general manager of TAC, handed over the award to Najma Salim Al Harthi, CEO of Al Sumri. At the award ceremony, Najma praised Higer coaches for their efficiency, cost effectiveness and safety features and Riyadh and other TAC officials appreciated Al Sumri for their constant support and encouragement, says a press release.

During the last few years, Al

Sumri Transport have included in their fleet about 40 Higer coaches, some which have run more than half a million kilometres giving

safe, long lasting and value for money performance.

With a fleet of 175 buses and coaches, Al Sumri Transport are

pioneers in passenger transport in the Sultanate.

They adhere to high safety and customer satisfaction standards, due to which they are one of the most preferred operators for many companies including major oilfield companies.

“Higer coaches’ styling and elegance also add to its attractiveness among tour operators, hotels, corporations and government agencies that opt for utmost comfort and safety. Not just this, Higer is an excellent buy from the perspective of a being an affordable and low maintenance vehicle. We are grateful to Al Sumri Transport for choosing Higer for so many years now,” said a senior spokesperson from TAC.

C S R I N I T I AT I V E

Al Madina Takaful supports Association for Elderly Friends MUSCAT: Al Madina Takaful, Oman’s first Takaful insurance provider, in its CSR initiative extended its support to the Omani Association for Elderly Friends by sponsoring the insurance fee for their bus.

The charity organisation tends to the needs of the elderly. Founded in 2013, the association provides care and support to the elderly through its various initiatives.

Al Madina Takaful has been providing continuous support to

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the charity and this new initiative is aimed at enabling the association further its activities.

“We are privileged to support the Omani Association for Elderly Friends. It is our collective duty and responsibility to provide all the support we can to help provide the right care for our elderly. This insurance support is our way of supporting the community and providing protection in a meaningful way,” said Usama Al Barwani, acting CEO, Al Madina Takaful.

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

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ROUND-UP

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Meethaq opens 16th branch in Wattayah Sayyid Shabib bin Harib Al Busaidi was the guest of honour at the formal inauguration of the 16th Meethaq branch, attended by dignitaries and senior bank officials

MUSCAT: Meethaq, the pioneer of Islamic banking in Oman from Bank Muscat, opened a state-ofthe-art branch in Wattayah as part of its focus to expand operations across the Sultanate and offer world-class Islamic banking experience to customers.

Sayyid Shabib bin Harib Al Busaidi was the guest of honour at the formal inauguration of the 16th Meethaq branch, attended by dignitaries and senior bank officials, says a press release.

Sulaiman Al Harthy, deputy chief executive officer –– Islamic Banking, said: “Meethaq is proud to open the new branch in Wattayah as part of its commitment and dedication to meet customer expectations for Islamic banking. The banking sector in Oman is witnessing the consolidation of Islamic banking and the state-ofthe-art branch network reflects

Meethaq’s focus to redefine Islamic banking operations in Oman.

The new branch is designed to create a unique ambience and banking environment in line with the Meethaq brand values of true Partnership, Transparency and Trust. Meethaq plans to expand the branch network as well as launch new products and services to complement the unique Islamic banking experience.”

Meethaq is the leading Islamic financial services provider in the Sultanate with many achievements contributing to the growth and development of the Sultan-

ate’s economy.

Meethaq extends support to all key economic sectors with innovative Sharia based products and is well positioned to provide Islamic financial expertise and thereby promote the good of society as a whole.

Meethaq is focused on developing as a benchmark Islamic financial institution in Oman and the region. Within just three years of operations, Meethaq has attained the leading position in the Islamic banking industry in Oman in terms of financing receivables, branch network, products and services, IT infrastructure and human resources development.

Meethaq has adopted the best practices in Islamic banking and finance worldwide to combine a robust model which protects customers and complements the Islamic banking industry. Every Meethaq product goes through the process of Sharia compliance certification by the Sharia Supervisory Board and is created in line with the guidelines of the Central Bank of Oman.

AWA R E N E S S D R I V E

Bank Sohar participates in Traffic Safety expo MUSCAT: In line with its commitment to raise awareness on road safety and safe driving, and to further shine light on its ‘RakizWaSooq’ campaign, Bank Sohar participates in the Oman Traffic Safety expo which started on Tuesday and will conclude today at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

Bank Sohar is hosting a designated stall that aim to provide information on the bank’s numerous road safety initiatives along with a special focus on children’s role in promoting safe driving habits among adults. The stall contains dedicated activities, prizes, and gifts for children, says a press release.

The bank has also setup a pledge wall for people to sign and show their support for Road Safety as part of bank’s ongoing campaign #rakiz_wa_souq, thereby committing to not using mobile phone while driving. The first person to sign the wall was Eng. Mohsen bin

Mohammed Al Sheikh, chairman of the Muscat Municipality, on his visit to the stall on the opening day.

Bank Sohar is also hosting an entertaining and educational road show that take place in the morning at the main exhibition stage. CDs of the ‘RakizwaSooq’ road safety jingle are also freely available.

Munira Abdulnabi Macki, GM of HR and Corporate Support at Bank Sohar said, “We are pleased

to participate in this ROP-organised event and do our part in further promoting safer roads within the Sultanate. Through participating in events such as these, we hope to have a positive impact on our society by complimenting His Majesty’s directives and the outstanding efforts of the Royal Oman Police. Road safety is an issue that affects everyone and takes a concerted effort from all

sectors of our society to improve.

Bank Sohar, since its inception has been committed to raising awareness about road safety and has done so through various initiatives. This year we are focusing on texting and driving and the vital role children can play in influencing the driving habits of adults for the better.”

“By educating the next generation, we will not only see safer roads today, as a result of the children’s influence on the adults around them, but also see safer roads in the long term when these children become responsible and safety-conscious drivers.

We encourage everyone to visit the expo and bring their children

by Bank Sohar’s stall where they can learn about road safety in an engaging environment. Be sure to also catch our stage shows at the main stage in the morning period,” Munira Macki added.

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I S C M A L AYA L A M W I N G

Malayalam drama set to be staged on October 29 MUSCAT: A full-length Malayalam drama titled Radheyan (Radheyude Puthran) will be performed live on stage at the Grand Hall of Al Falaj Hotel on Saturday, October 29 by Indian Social Club Malayalam Wing.

Radheyan is based on a Marathi Novel – Mrityunjaya – written by Shivaji Sawant. The story depicts the life of the great warrior Karnan from the epic Mahabharatha, who is known for upholding his principles and ideologies. Karnan is the centre character in this drama.

Though he was known as one of the undefeatable and greatest warriors in his time, he received insults throughout his life because of his kind-hearted and sympathetic qualities. The thread line of the story takes through his life journey which comprises a mixture of emotional and heart-breaking scenes of love

and hatred.

The cast has been drawn from the members of the Malayalam Wing. There will be 21 artists of various calibre demonstrating their skills through 12 scenes.

The main role of Karnan will be presented by Biju Varghese, who has a great passion in theatre art forms. The play is written and directed by Sunil Kumar Krishnan Nair, Music & Drama secretary of Malayalam Wing, and the stage craft is designed by the veteran artist Sujathan, who is a pioneer in the theatre form of arts for decades. The music is composed by D. Shivaprasad and the stage lights are designed and directed by KPAC Ansar Ibrahim.

Make-up will be handled by Gopi and the costumes are designed by Sunil Kumar.

The play commences at 6pm and the entry is open to all on a first come first served basis.

N E W I N I T I AT I V E

Kims to remain open seven days a week MUSCAT: Kims Oman Hospital (KOH) will now be operating seven-day-a-week with its specialised clinics to open on Friday from 9am to 12pm and 4pm to 9pm.

The new initiative will include specialities such as - obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, cardiology, dermatology in addition to the physiotherapy department.

Furthermore, the hospital’s emergency service, MRI, radiology and laboratory units are operative 24X7, 365 days a year.

“At KOH, we constantly thrive to excel our services and provide the best to our patients. All our efforts are directed towards treating our patients with utmost care, courtesy and compassion.

The availability of our specialities seven days a week will facilitate denizens further,” said Dr Hussam Akoum, chief operating officer at KOH. He further added that, “KOH is committed to provide worldclass healthcare services at an affordable price. For us patient is the sole cause of existence and we reciprocate the faith and trust

All our efforts are directed towards treating our patients with utmost care, courtesy and compassion.

The availability of our specialities seven days a week will facilitate denizens further Dr Hussam Akoum Chief operating officer at KOH that patients’ exhibit in our brand by giving our very best in clinical as well as non-clinical aspects of healthcare.

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM THU RS DAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

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DHONI DOESN’T NEED TIME TO SETTLE DOWN, SAYS KUMBLE

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LASER STANDARD WINNER: Oman’s Ahmed Al Balushi, centre, stands on the top of the podium after winning the Laser Standard class at Abu Dhabi Open Regatta.

OMAN’S A. AL RAWAHI SHOWS EXCELLENT PACE Oman’s DD2 champion Abdullah Al Rawahi closed out an impressive day, with a sensational fourth fastest time in the final practice at Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno. >C3

OTIMIST CLASS: Oman’s Al Moatasem Al Farsi won the first place in Optimist class title at Abu Dhabi Open Sailing Regatta.

Oman sailors impress in Abu Dhabi class while Alla Al Amrani, also from Musannah Sailing School, finished seventh.

Oman’s leading girl Samiha Al Riyami from Almouj Sailing School, won the girls division beating Netherlands Mathilde Oldeman into second.

Oman fielded representatives in five classes, from the Optimist class for Under-12s to the full Olympic Laser Standard class, which was won by Oman’s leading dinghy sailor Ahmed Al Balushi SWEET WIN: Oman’s Samiha Al Riyami won the girls title at Abu Dhabi Open Sailing Regatta. – Supplied photo

MUSCAT: Oman emerged as the leading nation at the Abu Dhabi Open Regatta last week after some impressive individual performances from members of the National Squad and the promising youth sailing team, sponsored

by Omantel.

Al Moatasem Al Farsi, representing Oman Sail’s Musannah

Sailing School swept to an emphatic victory in the Optimist class, which started out with 45 entries from the UAE, Britain, Australia, Netherlands, Greece and Switzerland.

After five races across three days, Al Farsi, who won the Nation-

al Sailing Championships in Oman earlier this year, had scored three first places to finish a hefty six points ahead of nearest rival Abdulaziz Al Hammadi from the UAE. The challenge for all Oman’s sailors was significant with the team facing shifting winds espe-

cially on the second day and racing in tidal winds, in stark contrast to Oman where the prevailing conditions are stable winds and next to no tidal flow.

Mohammed Al Alawi from Almouj Muscat Sailing School came fourth in the Optimist Over 12

Five classes Oman fielded representatives in five classes, from the Optimist class for Under-12s to the full Olympic Laser Standard class which was won by Oman’s leading dinghy sailor Ahmed Al Balushi, topping the eight strong leaderboard after a close contest with Saif Ibrahim Al Hammadi from the UAE. Mansoor Al Mahrouqi came third in the Laser Radials, in a field of 14 with national squad member Ibtisam Al Salmi in 12th and Abdul Malik Gharib Al Hinai finished in an impressive second place in the 23 strong Laser 4.7 after winning two of his five races.

The objective of Oman’s participation in the Abu Dhabi Open Regatta was to allow Oman’s up and coming young sailors to network and interact with sailors of a similar age and interest from other countries and to measure their

performances against other teams.

It was also good practice and excellent preparation for future events, such as the Arab Sailing Championships in Abu Dhabi in December and the ISAF Youth Worlds in New Zealand starting on December 16.

“This was a very good event for the team, both in how they performed and also the extent to which they were tested because they had to learn control in the shifting winds and round the marks in difficult tidal conditions,” Mohsin Al Busaidi, Youth Sailing Development Manager, said.

“But they made good progress.

We were the strongest nation at this event and that was despite the fact that some sailors were new to their classes and had had a break from training.

“We need to keep pushing to improve. We are at the start of a long journey to Olympic success and we know there are no shortcuts, but I see some real talent coming from our four sailing schools and that is really encouraging.”

Oman Sail has an internal ranking event on November 18 and is also planning to send their most talented youngsters to Abu Dhabi again for further training.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

SPORTS

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Favourites India under pressure to win Asian Champions Trophy Winners of the inaugural Asian Champions Trophy at Ordos five years ago, India have since then been indifferent in fielding their best squad for this competition, which suffered from lack of enthusiasm among the continent’s hockey elite

KUANTAN: Asian Games gold medalists India start as the overwhelming favourites to reclaim the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT) men’s hockey tournament featuring continent’s top six nations, starting here on Thursday.

Winners of the inaugural Asian Champions Trophy at Ordos five years ago, India have since then been indifferent in fielding their best squad for this competition, which suffered from lack of enthusiasm among the continent’s hockey elite.

After two editions of the annual event were not conducted in 2014 and 2015, the Asian Champions Trophy got a boost from the International Hockey Federation’s (FIH) decision to include it in the qualification system for future Olympics and World Cups.

The FIH decision has attracted the top Asian hockey talent to the Malaysian post city of Kuantan which will quality action from Oc-

CONFIDENT BUNCH: A file photo of captain Sreejesh and his team members. India will open against Japan in the opening match at Kuan-

tang on Thursday.

tober 20 to 30. Fielding their bestavailable squad that was marred by a spate of injuries, India’s billing as the hot favourites could put them under pressure.

Twice defending champions Pakistan, who are the best performing team in the Asian Champions Trophy’s short history, and former Asian champions South Korea will be eager to pull off a surprise against the higher-ranked opponents.

Indian team coach Roelant Oltmans has implored his side for positive results in this outing.

“Our quarterfinal ouster in the Olympics was a disappointment, but it has instilled a belief in the players that they can match the best in the world. Now, Indian hockey fans will be looking for some good results,” says Oltmans.

Ranked number six in the world and way ahead of the other teams competing in this tournament, the Indian players are aware that nothing less than the title will be deemed as a positive result.

By virtue of their Asian Games gold medal, India were the only Asian team to feature in the Olympic Games and their preliminary pool victory over eventual Olympic gold medalists Ar-

gentina was the spotlight for PR Sreejesh-led side.

Memory of his penalty strokesaving deeds of the 2011 Asian Champions Trophy final still fresh, captain Sreejesh is keen to give a thanksgiving present to the Indian hockey supporters who have kept the belief even in times of despair such as India’s bottom spot in the 12-team Olympic competition in 2012 and the failure to even qualify for the Olympic Games four years earlier.

“Showcase your strike-power” is the message that’s gone out to the Indian team from its skipper.

After their 1-3 Rio Olympic quarterfinal loss to Belgium, who went on to win a silver medal behind Argentina, India are looking for a winning start to the next Olympic cycle, during which they will again host the World Cup in 2018.

India are eager to prove that injury-caused absence of their playmaker Manpreet Singh and livewire right winger S V Sunil has not blunted their strike-power.

Also missing from the squad is seasoned defender V R Raghunath.

Manpreet’s absence will see the return of former captain Sardar Singh to the centre-half postion, while the experienced Birender

Lakra will return from his injuryforced absence to step into Raghunath’s position.

Akashdeep Singh and Ramandeep Singh, who were originally rested, were recalled to the squad after Sunil failed to recover from the wrist injury he sustained during the Olympics.

The performance of young strikers Lalit Upadhyay and Affan Yousuf will also be under scrutiny.

It was in this year’s Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Malaysia that junior team captain Harmanpreet Singh impressed the coach so much that he got picked for the Olympic squad.

India launch their campaign against Japan on Thursday, while defending champions Pakistan take on hosts Malaysia on the opening day. South Korea and China, the other two participants, get into action on Friday.

The feature of the round-robin league competition will be the India-Pakistan encounter on Sunday, where the defending champions will be eager to avenge their loss at the Incheon Asiad title encounter.

The loss in the 2014 Asian Games final at Incheon led to Pakistan’s ouster from the Olympic

Games lineup for the first time. It was a big blow of Pakistan hockey, soon after they failed to qualify for the 12-team World Cup at The Hague earlier in 2014.

Pakistan’s campaign here had a tottering start with captain Mohammad Irfan failing to make it to Kuantan. Reportedly unable to retrieve his passport from another embassy, Irfan was not with the Pakistan team that landed in Malaysia and now he has been left out of the tournament altogether.

Irfan has now been replaced as captain by Fareed Ahmed, the highest capped member of the squad with 207 appearances for Pakistan.

Pakistan has won the Asian Champions Trophy twice after being runners up in the inaugural edition. Pakistan defeated India 5-4 in the final in 2012 and then retained the title in 2013 by prevailing 3-1 over Japan in the title encounter.

In 2013, when India sent their under-21 side, they did not even feature in the final. India have one gold and one silver medal, beside the fifth-place in 2013.

Hosts Malaysia have consistently got the bronze medal in all three editions. - PTI

BADMINTON

Kennedy upsets Prabhu MUSCAT: Dominic Kennedy came up with a brilliant display to upset second seed Prabhu AR in men’s singles at the Dalma Energy-ISC annual badminton tournament organised by the Indian Social Club (ISC).

Kennedy enjoyed court superiority and played with his usual cool to wrap the first game. The second game was no different with both players exhibiting delightful drops and aggression.

Kennedy started off well but Prabhu managed to keep at level taking second game in his favour.

Prabhu then stepped up on his smashes but Kennedy managed to put these back and win some crucial points to keep his nose in front. Closer to the end, Kennedy held his nerve to win the match at 21-16, 13-21, 21-7.

In another men’s A singles, Ameenuddin showed some extra ordinary acrobatic movements to claim victory Shaiju Vethottil. Ameen faced stiff resistance before wrapping the game against Shaiju scoring 21-16, 17-21, 21-19. In men’s singles, Niyaz Nirar with his cross court smashes and swift movements took the first game 22-20 against Gireesh but succumbed to a surprising injury at the beginning of second game and opted out of contention.

Top seed Percy Pereira faced stiff resistance from young Yash Deshpande before winning 21-13, 19-21, 21-19. In another match, Jay Deshpande eased to a 21-18, 21-13 victory of Sudheer M. Leon D’souza also claimed a victory when he defeated Manoj MV 21-13, 21-17 in the same category.

In combined boys and girls event, Niketan, Arush Uniyal, Krithika Gupta entered the second round along with talented sisters Piha and Pahi Himanshu. In boys under-15, Prayag defeated Tarun 15-7, 15-7 and Jeswin Mathew won 15-7, 15-9 against SM Jeeva.

In girls under-15, Shreya Krishnan and Jaanavi Gundupalli booked their berths in the semifinals. Shreya defeated Muthu Abhirami 15-8, 15-10 while Jaanavi beat Shama Fatima 15-7, 15-9 respectively.

Shama Nayaz moved to quarterfinals in girls under-13 defeating Aiman Habib and in boys under-13, B. Arjun moved up after defeating Akash Muthu.

NEW BEGINNING

WBO accepts Indian Boxing Council NEW DELHI: The Indian Boxing Council, a licensing body for the country’s professional boxers, has been inducted into the World Boxing Organisation with voting rights in the WBO’s annual convention at Puerto Rico.IBC President Brig.

PKM Raja attended the meet in which the Indian body was welcomed into the fold by WBO founder Chairman Luis Batista Salas. “I am extremely delighted that Indian Boxing Council has been formally welcomed into the WBO fold. This paves the way for Indian Boxers to participate in WBO Events and be eligible to compete for WBO Asia Pacific as well as WBO World Titles,” Brig.

Raja told PTI over phone.

“It was a momentous occasion for me as President of IBC, when many prominent Boxing Promoters from Asia, Europe. — PTI

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

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SPORTS Abdullah Al Rawahi shows excellent pace

R A L LY I N G

EAGER TO COMPETE: A file photo of Khalid Soomar taking part in a rally championship round. – Supplied photo

Oman’s DD2

Omani drivers gear up for Sharjah Rally

Al Rawahi closed out

champion Abdullah an impressive day, with a sensational fourth fastest time in

MUSCAT: Five Omani drivers, including three-time national champion Khalid Soomar, are gearing up to take part in the Sharjah Rally.

Besides Khalid Soomar, the other Omani drivers who will be testing rallying skills in the UAE are Humaid Al Wa’eili, Hamed Al Qasmi, Faisal Al Rashidi and Qasim Haroon.

The Sharjah event, the fourth round of the 2016 UAE Rally Championship, is scheduled to take place on October 29.

Khalid Soomar, who won his three national titles in 2004, 2008, 2011, has recently announced his plans to take part in the Sharjah Rally after Target LLC has come forward to sponsor his activities for another season following their successful partnership during the last year.

The former Oman champion is hoping for a strong show in Sharjah, which marks his first outing in the UAE. “This will be my first participation in the UAE. It will be a new experience for me. Thanks to Target LLC and their support I will be travelling to Sharjah and compete with the best rally drivers. It’s an opportunity for me to participate and learn as well as interact and strengthen ties with the UAE drivers,” Khaled Soomar said.

Meanwhile, Humaid Al Wa’eili will be returning to the UAE championship after a short break.

Humaid and his co-driver Mo-

hammad Al Omeiri have missed the early rounds of the UAE champinship. But Humaid declared the duo’s eagerness to participate in the event after readying their modified Subaru Impreza.

Hamed Al Qasmi, on the other hand, will be hoping to improve his standings with a good performance in Sharjah as he is currenly in second place behind Sheikh Abdullah Al Qasimi in Group N rankings.

Hamed Al Qasmi and his codriver Mohammed Al Mazroui, who will be driving a Mitsubishi Evo 8, have confirmed their participation even though they are fighting against odds to make it, owing to lack of sponsors and financial support.

Faisal Al Rashidi and his copilot Waleed Al Rashidi, who will be driving a Subaru Impreza, are also eagerly looking forward for the Sharjah trip.

Faisal, who is in third place in Group N category behind Hamed Al Qasmi, said ‘we ready to fight for the top places in Sharjah’.

“I was hoping the Oman Rally Championship resumes this year as it would have given us an opportunity to prepare better for outside completions,” Faisal said.

Qasim Haroon, lamenting the lack of competition at home, said: “When there are no competition, the drivers skills as well as fitness will be badly affected. In order to keep ourselves fit and to hone our skills, we are going to take part in the UAE championship rounds.”

the final practice for Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals in Sarno

MUSCAT: Omani talent Abdullah Al Rawahi featured prominently as Team UAE and Oman drivers set excellent pace on the last full day of practice before the official Qualifying for the 2016 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals at Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno, in southern Italy.

In contrast to the idyllic conditions of the previous two days, Day 3 of the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals saw a much more ‘European’ ambience with overcast conditions and the ever-present threat of rain another factor for the 360 competitors to consider.

Following some mixed performances on the first day of official practice, Team UAE and Oman were looking to make progress in the last full day of practice before official Qualifying.

The circuit remained dry throughout the morning and into the early part of the afternoon as Micro Max drivers, Oscar McElroy and Rashid Al Dhaheri looked to continue their impressive form from the previous day. McElroy was impeccable in both sessions, finishing ninth and 11th and giving himself an excellent platform for Qualifying.

FOURTH FASTEST: Abdullah Al Rawahi, front, in action during the final full day of practice before the official Qualifying for the 2016 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals at Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno, in southern Italy. – Supplied photo

Al Dhaheri, however, was down on pace in both sessions after suffering with an apparent technical issue. He improved dramatically in the final session but his technical support team will be looking to make advancements overnight ahead of Qualifying.

Ziggy Kermanshahchi shone in the Mini Max category, topping the timesheets of the final session until a late charge from his rivals dropped him to third, albeit just 0.07s behind the fastest driver. It was a great end to the day for him but he will be wary that there is still much work to do before the real business of Qualifying gets under way.

Junior Max drivers Tehmur Chohan and Lucas Petersson performed excellently. Chohan made it into the top 10 while Petersson’s 12th place was sensational given his struggle for pace on the previous day. Both will be confident of a solid Qualifying performance but with 60 drivers within one second, any mistake could be devastating.

Giulio Peroni and Pasqual Pook both improved their relative po-

ITF PRO CIRCUIT

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Fatma enters quarterfinals of Lagos tourney MUSCAT: Oman’s Fatma Al Nabhani stormed into the quarterfinals of the singles competition in the $25,000 ITF Pro Circuit Governor’s Cup in Lagos, Nigeria on Wednesday.

In a second round match, the Omani girl played a like champion to upset the French eighth seed Harmony Tan in straight sets 6-4, 6-0.

In the last eight stage, Fatma will square off against secondseeded Slovakian Tadeja Majeric.

In her second round match, Tadeja brushed aside the challenge of qualifier from Grenada, Akilah James for a 6-2, 6-0 victory.

Fatma’s doubles challenge ended on Tuesday, when the Omani and her her Ukrainian partner Valeriya Strakhova were beaten in their first round match 6-3, 3-6 (10-7) by India’s Kyra Shroff and Dhruthi Venugopal.

sitions throughout the day in the Max class although a light spattering of rain affected Peroni’s group slightly. The rain then became heavier which played havoc with the DD2 Masters as, on slick tyres, grip levels were significantly reduced. Hussain Umid Ali chose to sit out the final session, knowing that driving in such conditions would likely not help his Qualifying preparation.

Anthony Hogg, however, performed relatively well in the difficult conditions and has certainly given himself the advantage of track knowledge if it rains in the elimination stages.

The rain abated in time for the DD2 class, who took to a dry track to make their final qualifying preparations. After struggling on the previous day, Taymour Kermanshahchi looked in good form in both sessions -- 14th and 16threspectively, and much closer to the front-running pace of reigning world champion Ferenc Kancsar, who topped the timesheets.

Edward Jones opted for a full

wet set-up in final practice, not expecting the track to dry out. This compromised his run but he was happy with the package underneath him ahead of Qualifying.

Oman’s Abdullah Al Rawahi trumped his eighth fastest time in the early session with a sensational fouth in the post-rain session, closing out an impressive day and allowing him to sleep soundly and with confidence.

Guy Sheffield, Team UAE manager, summed up the day: “We have a few issues to resolve before Qualifying to help some of the team to show their true pace. But, overall, what a day for the younger members of the squad. Ziggy and Abdullah were brilliant, Tehmur and Lucas performed well in final practice and Oscar also stood out.

“We’re in good shape but the guys have to remember that this is only practice and we have a tough week ahead of us against the best drivers in the world. We have had great support from back home in the UAE and we are hoping to do everyone proud.”

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2016

SPORTS Lot at stake for Dhoni as India ready to dominate New Zealand once again

WARMING UP: Indian players warming up during a practice session at the Ferozshah Kotla Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday. – PTI

While Kane Williamson’s ‘Black Caps’ are struggling to stay afloat in the series, India’s ‘Captain Cool’ is fighting a different battle to remain the ‘supreme’ commander’ of ‘Men In Blue’

NEW DELHI: Limited over captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni will be eager to regain his golden touch even as Virat Kohli eyes another smashing knock at his home

ground when favourites India lock horns with an hapless New Zealand in the second Ond-day International (ODI) here on Thursday.

It may be just another ODI in a bilateral series, but there is lot at stake for Dhoni, who has been under pressure after Test skipper Virat Kohli led India to the No. 1 ranking following a 3-0 whitewash.

With India up 1-0 in the five-match series, Dhoni and his men would like to reassert themselves at the Ferozshah Kotla stadium in order to further consolidate their lead.

It is expected that Dhoni would not tinker much with the playing XI from last game with Suresh Raina, who missed the opening match, being ruled out of the second ODI as well after failing to recover from a bout of viral fever.

At the face of it, there is apparently no danger to Dhoni’s captaincy since the team is still winning matches. But if one digs deeper, Virat has slowly and surely been the man everyone is looking forward to as a leader.

A ‘Clean Sweep’ in Test series with a career-best double hundred, followed by an effortless 85

not out in first ODI, Kohli has time and again showed as to how it is done “leading from the front.”

For Dhoni, it’s now about showing the world that he is far from being dubbed as a spent force in limited overs after earning sobriquet of ‘Best Finisher” some years back.

While Kane Williamson’s ‘Black Caps’ is struggling to stay afloat in the series, India’s ‘Captain Cool’ is fighting a different battle to remain the ‘supreme’ commander’ of ‘Men In Blue’.

Dhoni is still supremely fit and agile behind the stumps. His captaincy acumen cannot be questioned. Testimony to that is Hardik Pandya opening the bowling and Kedar Jadhav filling in the role of a part time off-spinner.

But then runs aren’t exactly coming from his bat. The big hits aren’t being executed with perfection that used to be his hallmark a few years ago. He was run out for 21 in the last game and although that didn’t affect the outcome of the match in any way, but the skipper knows only too well that he has to play a few impact innings in coming weeks.

No wonder Dhoni’s intensity while batting at Kotla nets during an optional session was there to be seen. For the record, he needs another 61 runs to complete 9,000 ODI runs. But there must be a lingering shadow of Virat standing right behind him. A 3-0 Test series victory has set a benchmark. Now

Dhoni would like to ideally win the series 5-0 against a New Zealand side. A blip here or a hiccup there would invite more criticism as people take it for granted that India will winhands down against New Zealand.

From a team’s perspective, Indians have settled down into a nice rhythm. The last match was a cakewalk. Umesh Yadav, Pandya, Mishra and Jadhav all chipped in with vital breakthroughs. Axar Patel and Jasprit Bumrah didn’t get wickets but followed their respective roles to perfection.

Jadhav has now given Dhoni an option as fifth bowler, who can roll his arm over bowling part-time off-breaks. With no Raina there in the middle order, Jadhav would like to make his case stronger in case he gets to bat considerable amount of time.

Ajinkya Rahane had a decent start in the 1st game scoring 34 at nearly run a ball while Rohit Sharma would like to shrug off the disappointment of the first match.

While Kohli and Dhoni are certainties in the XI, Manish Pandey is expected to score big runs as

there are other contenders in that middle order. For New Zealand, the series has gone from bad to worse save a few individual performances which is far from being satisfactory. The only saving grace for them has been opener Tom Latham with his consistency.

Skipper Williamson’s bad patch has continued for a while and he will like to make amends.

Spin twins Mitchell Santner and lsh Sodhi have been brought down to earth after World T20 high as they found how hard it is to bowl on flat sub continental tracks.

India (from): MS Dhoni (captain and wk), Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Amit Mishra, Axar Patel, Umesh Yadav, Dhawal Kulkarni, Jayant Yadav, Mandeep Singh.

New Zealand (from): Kane Williamson (captain) , Tom Latham, Martin Guptill, Ross Taylor, Luke Ronchi (wk), Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Jimmy Neesham, Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Anton Devcich, Doug Bracewell, Matt Henry, BJ Watling. - PTI

ODI SERIES

FAREED UNOPPOSED FOR OBA TOP POST Unopposed Fareed bin Khamis Soniya Al Zadjali is set to retain the chairmanship of Oman Basketball Association (OBA). The nominations for the board elections for the 2016-2020 term closed on Wednesday and according to the nomination list provided by the OBA, incumbent Fareed Al Zadjali is the lone candidate to apply for the post of chairmanship. Final list of the candidates: Chairman: Farid bin Khamis Al Zadjali; Vice-chairman: Sheikh Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Rawas and Abdulhakim Amer Al Shanfari. General Secretary: Assad bin Mubarak Al Hassani. Treasurer: Idris bin Darwish Al Farsi. Members: Younis bin Khmis Al Zadjali, Malallah bin Mohammed Al Balushi, Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Yafiei, Hamad bin Madhkhour Al Jefaili, Mohammed bin Saif Al Kiyumi, Rabie bin Said Awlad Thani and Saleh bin Tarif Al Ghazali. — Supplied photo

Dhoni has enough experience: Kumble NEW DELHI: There has been constant debate on whether Mahendra Singh Dhoni should bat up the order with questions being raised about his ability as a finisher but coach Anil Kumble made it clear that the veteran skipper has “enough experience” and “does not need time to settle down”.

Asked if Dhoni would be asked to bat up the order keeping in mind India’s Champions Trophy defence in UK next year, Kumble was quick to respond: “It all depends on match situations. While chasing you need more experience. As far as MS is concerned, he has enough experience. He has shown over the years that he has enough capabilities as a batsman.

“We don’t need to really look close at giving him time to settle in. You will probably see a different batting order depending on different situations.”

While flexibility remains key for Kumble, he did say that Manish Pandey is being looked at as a potential No. 4 due to his experience of handling pressure situations for long in domestic cricket as well as the spark that he has shown in his brief international career.

“We have a couple of options.

Obviously, Manish is someone who

CANDID: Anil Kumble speaking

at a press conference. - PTI

has done really well in recent past.

He started off really well in Dharamsala. It all depends on situations, may be someone else could walk up depending on whether we bat first or second. But Manish has shown a lot of promise and performance...

Something heartening. He has quite a bit of experience at domestic level unlike Hardik (Pandya) who is new at that level. He is certainly the No 4, we are looking into.”

Even as KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan’s injuries have opened the doors for Ajinkya Rahane at the top of the order, Kumble feels a clearer picture will emerge only after the tour of England.

“I think Rahane certainly fits in at the top of the order so that is one thing we will persist with.

Yes, it does give us an option once Shikhar and Rahul are fit but will only look at that when England come for the one-dayers (in January). So it’s a lot of time before the next one-day series.

“In this one-day series, definitely Rahane is going to open the batting. Looking at the Champions Trophy, we will then decide who will open the batting,” said the chief coach.

Talking about how A tours act as a synergy for the senior team where some players are expected to hone specific skills before walking into the senior team’s dressing room and Hardik Pandya’s bowling is something that the team is banking on.

“I think he (Hardik) is someone who gives us right balance because he cannot only bowl but he bowls at a pretty decent pace. It was nice that he really bowled well in his first game with the new ball. That was certainly a strategy that MS wanted Hardik to try. And it’s really heartening that he came up with the MoM award in his first game.

“So that should give him a lot of confidence. Like I mentioned, all-

rounders, who can run in and bowl quick and bat are certainly an asset and he is someone we will closely monitor and see how he progresses. We will expect Hardik to give us that 7-8 or 10 overs which certainly gives us a better balance in the team,” Kumble explained.

However the coach is not ready to put pressure on Hardik, the batsman.

“Someone who is just starting his international career we do not want to put pressure on him by giving him definite plans of what is expected of him. He is someone who likes the freedom and that’s exactly what we have given someone like Hardik. We don’t want to burden the younger player, who is coming in, and suggest that this is what is expected of you.

“Because the moment you start putting pressure and tell that you bowl 6 deliveries in one spot, it doesn’t work that way in international cricket. Even with his batting, he has all the freedom, doesn’t really matter what the situation is.”

For Kumble, there must have been a sense of deja vu as he entered Feroz Shah Kotla, a venue where he got his historic ‘Perfect 10’ and also bid adieu to international cricket. — PTI

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W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 6

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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CARGO

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T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

F

O R R E N T

* Flat of 2 BHK in Al Azaiba near the sea RO.300 * Villa of 4 BHK in Al Hail North with sea view RO.450 * Shops in Al Qurum same line of More & Café and Starbucks with different sizes 20 to 25 each SQM * Commercial 4 BHK flat in Al Ghobra 18 Nov street RO.650 * Brand new flat of 4 BHK, sitting area & dining area in Al Khuwair 33. RO.550 * Amazing & spacious 2 BHK flat with best view in Remal building Bowshar RO. 500

Contact - 91776665

*Tourist visa arranged

Workers Accommodation available nearby Sohar Port

500 to 5000 workers can accommodate with all facilities *industrial Catering *Manpower Supply *Facility Management *Staff Accommodation *Event Management*Construction Contact +968 22092638 / 968 93031168 E-mail. arn14256@gmail.com / nitsohar@gmail.com, www.alistiqamah.net

Showroom, Offices & Apartments FOR RENT

FOR SALE * 6BR Villa in Al Ghobra Facing the beach for sale. * Commercial & Residential Land in Al khuwair for sale. * warehouse in Wadi Al kabir for sale.

Spacious showroom & office space for rent at Al – Mabela . 176 m2 showroom area . Offices / shops . Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartment . Government water.

FOR RENT Showroom & Labour camp in wadi Al kabir for rent. brand new building 1BHK/Basement/ Showroom & offices in Ruwi for rent

Contact - 97792004 / 93220482

Contact: 91155779 hrm_gh@live.com Furnished rooms for rent for family 200 RO per month include water & electricity, Al Khuwair. #99251975 Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM Brand new show room deluxe 3 BHK, 2 BHK apartments with basement parking at Azaiba near Al Sahwa tower. Contact: 98294753 4bed/ l large drawing room, 2 toilets / kitchen / balcony Hilat Sad (Opp. Al Nahda Hospital) near Abu Zaki bldg (bldg. Al Batna). Rent R.O 290/-. Contact: 99489548 2BHK flat for rent at Wattaya near National Bank of Oman (2 bed rooms, sitting room, kitchen & 2 bathrooms). Contact: 97016442

2BHK in Ansab 275/-OMR. Contact 91377970 Shop for rent SOUQ road Muttrah, near Oman house.

Contact: 99183525 / 24706045 House for rent in Al Amerat near sultan center. 3 bedrooms, 3 toilets, sitting room and kitchen. area of the building is 170 sq. rent is ro.250/- pm. call 99469203 Flat (villa type) , in Al Azaiba North, first floor sitting room, family hall, kitchen, 2 bathrooms.

Penthouse 3 bedrooms with attached bathrooms. Well designed with quality finishing R.O 500/-.

Contact Real Estate Services Co: 91246444 / 92905432 / 24222345

2 BHK flat for rent at Azaiba in front of Al Sahwa towers.

Contact: 97016442

1& 2 bed flats rent 250+ 350/- available in Wadi Al Kabir (near Lulu) with split A/C, all maintenance, 24 hours watchman facilities, with security systems. Contact: 99451168

2 Bed room flat overlooking Riyam Garden, Corniche.

Contact: 24714625 / 91173997

1000,00 m2 Industrial plot with compound wall & two room at Misfa I/A. # 99342733 / 91118706

Preferably to One Organization 16 Flats of 2 Bedrooms + Sitting + 2 Bathrooms + kitchen in Al Khuwair near to Said Bin Taimoor Mosque and Oman Oil, Gr. floor & 1st Floor 6 flats and penthouse 4 flats. Plus servant room outside. Spacious parking inside and outside the building. Real Estate Services Co. (RESCO ) : 91246444 / 92905432 / 24222345 Villa for rent at Qurum with Majlis, dining room, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, car parking, land scaping area. Contact : 97016442 3 Bedrooms flat in Qurum, sitting & dining 2.5 bathrooms, kitchen at R.O 450/- monthly. Dimensions are good. Location is near by the road that goes towards Oman oil and Burger king. Contact Real Estate Services Co: 912464444 / 92905432 / 24222345

Deluxe, 2 BHK flat for rent in Wattaya. Contact: 98802343

Villa in South Mawaleh: 8 bedrooms, 2 Majilis, 1 Family Hall, 9 toilets, 2 kitchens with Split AC, ample car park Contact: 96775026 / 99463626 2 BHK M.B.D R.O 280/-.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 1,2 BHK Darsait. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175 2 Bed room centrally air conditioned flat in CBD near central bank. Contact: 24714625/ 91173997 / 93527328 Flats and shop for rent in Ruwi, Honda road and Mumtaz area. #97293708 / 92433127 / 97103695 Room in Wadi Kabeer. #99058744

2BHK in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Kuwaiti Mosque in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

2 Bedroom flat near Indian school Wadi Kabeer with A.C. Contact: 99322363 / 95453813

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Oman house in Muttrah.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

3 BHK ground floor house for rent in Al Hail South. Contact: 95047657 Villa for Rent behind mazoon mousqe 7 bedroom, living room, dining room . Contact 95150809 for 750 R.O nogotiable 1 BHK near Medical Darsait Muttrah house R.O 180/-. #95070201 3 bedrooms villa in Qurum near Ramee hotel & close to crown Plaza Hotel and beach. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 Brand new 14 flats in Al Wadi Al Kabir, 11 flats of 1 bedroom RO 250, 3 flats of 2 bedrooms RO 300. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345

2 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair, 1 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair for short or long term contract. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC. Contact 99436312 / 92888376 / 94617563, tel : 24834888 / 24833848 Shop / office (rent 230/ 240/250)/ comm / Resi building (near Lulu) Wadi Al Kabir Friday market road.

Contact: 99451168 2 BHK with split / AC in Azaiba, 18th November Street.

Contact: 96708000 Flats for rent in Ghala, before palm tree R/A and next to Al Maha F/S Ghala, 2 bedrooms ++ RO 350 monthly, 1 bedroom ++ at RO 300 monthly. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 3 bedroom ground floor house for rent in South Al Hail behind Al Hail Hypermarket. Contact: 95047657 2 BHK with split / AC in Bareeq Al Shatti. Contact: 96708000

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DAILY GUIDE

Company for SALE at Wadi Al Kabir Manufacturing of Steel & Stainless Steel, & cast Aluminium products. Running company for sale. with all the machines and equipments also with 15 nos. of skilled workers.

Serious buyers can contact at 93132208 / 79065540

REQUIRED ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS Looking for Electrical Labour Contractors

for awarding ongoing building service job.

FOR RENT 2 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686

Shop for sale in Al Ghubrah.

Contact: 99030180/ 97003247

5 warehouse on Misfah, Bausher opposite to Oman cement factory, 2 ware house 845 sqm each, 3 ware house 425 sqm each.

Contact: 96041560 / 99322321 Mr. Prasanna

Twin Villa for sale in Azaiba near Sultan Centre. Each side has three floors, five bedroom plus maid room. Each room has it’s own bathroom and one extra toilet between dining and sitting room. The villas are now about 5 years old and very clean and well maintained. It has split A/C’s. OMR 215,000 each villa.

Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

Furnished apartment for rent in Bowsher, 1 bedroom & living room.

Contact: 91153933 6 Bedroom villas available for rent at North Al Hail, near Wave, complex with swimming pool and Gym. Contact: 99833747

Beauty Salon in Azaiba on the Service Road for Sale / Lease.

Gsm: 90657312

Villa for rent in Al Khoud , 6 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933

Industrial land in Rusail.4000 sqm.

Contact 99323957 / 95490842.

Office space for rent (240sq. mtr, with partition) for rent in Bank in Melli Iran Building, MBD area, near Center point. Contact: 99011352

Shop for sale Honda road, Ruwi.

Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM : 92877958 / 94289164

Flat for rent in Al Ghubrah, 2 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933 Room in Azaiba. Contact: 99555843 One room with bathroom in Bowsher for rent. Contact: 91153933 For rent villa in Bowsher 5 rooms & hall. Contact : 91153933 Arabian style house located in North Al Hail in the second line behind the commercial buildings of the SQ main street 1003 m2 land size and there’s permitted well & palm trees suitable to use for storage facility & accommodation for company workers, 2 streets across the house from front and back side.

Contact: 93366421

Cat 6 UTP cable (KUWES) 305M Roll AT R.O 33/- only & Network Cabinet 42 U 600x600 (Toten) at RO 160/- Only & 12 Core SM Outdoor armored (AKSH) at 450 baisa per meter only. Contact: Al Wassen Network Technology LLC. Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM: 92877958 / 94289164 Email: alwassen@omantel.net.om Good Condition Sanyo washing machine, semi automatic, RO 25 for sale in MBD Contact; 99737812 RESTAURANT for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 99378964 Juices, Ice cream parlour in Ruwi.

Ideal location. Contact: 92150455

Flats for rent in Darsait, 3 bedrooms++ RO 350 monthly.

Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345

BUILDING MATERIAL SHOP FOR SALEWell-furnished running building material-electrical shop (4 shutter / 200sqm) in Al- Khoudh- 6, for immediate saleshop with stock or stock only.

Serious buyers may please Contact: 94320909

2 BR apartments available for rent, close to Muscat Grand Mall, next to Diwan’s Office, South Ghubra. Contact: 2456256 / 99833747

Land for sale in the village of Bimmah on the coastal road Qurayat/Sur with a space of 604 square meters for an attractive price. Contact 92905222

1 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686

Beauty parlour for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 92430239

MANPOWER

DRIVING

Contact 99878180 / 93892793

FOR SALE

MV SALE Dihatsu Terrios Trend 4WD, 2012 Registration, dealer service registration up to August 2017.

Contact No: 92812144

SITUATION WANTGOOD NEWS

BUYING Buying cars for cash.

Contact 90202090

ACC. AVAILABLE Furnished room for Indian Executive bachelor Ruwi, near Honda Road (Walja). Contact 91012106 / 99016546 Room with bath, kitchen at Al Khuwair. Contact: 99743569 Fully furnished room in an appt for Indian married couples near Royal Hospital area. Ready to move in December 1st; even short term stay for minimum 4 months. Contact 95956865 for further details.

Spacious semi furnished room with separate bathroom for executive bachelor Opp. O.C. Centre Ruwi Call : 90611670 Room near Hamriya roundabout for Executive bachelor. Contact: 93590332 / 97443614 Furnished room in ruwi and azaiba for rent for executive bachelors. Gsm 99058344 Furnished room with attached bath room in Ruwi. #93223278 Fully Delux furnished sharing flat for Indian Executive near Sheraton CBD. Contact 99219337 A big room available near Hamriya round about for Muslim couple / small family / Executive bachelor rent 125/- per month including W+E. Contact: 99495131 Furnished room for Indian bachelor near Al Falaj hotel Ruwi and lady in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 96202458.

FOR HIRE Planning Estimation Engineer B.Tech Civil with 3 years experience driving license NOC. Contact: 98240765

AVAILABLE Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com PDO approved prime mover and flat bed trailer available for long lease or rental preferably with direct company. Contact: 99427951

CHANGE OF NAME I Robinsent Raj (holder of Indian passport No. N 4892490) Son of Chelladurai having permanent residence in 3-34 Kanjan Villai, Midalakadu, Palapallam (complete postal address in India) and presently residing in 3-34 Kanjan Villai, Midalakadu, Palapallam, Kanyakumari, Dist, Pin 629159 (complete postal in Oman) intend to change my name from Robinsent Raj Chelladurai (old name) to Vincentraj Chelladurai (new name) for all practical purpose. Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P. Box No. 1727, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic clinic, 18th November Street Al Ghubra (North). Contact: 99639695 / 97397320

Female Driving Teacher training professionally in both Khuwair Ghubrah and Azaiba, mawalih and Alkhawd. With good English Language for connect No.95133981

SITUATION WANTWEB/CLASSES

Ayurvedic treatments & massage – Ayurvedic Clinic Al Khuwair.

Contact 97263637 / 93309131 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com Car care, care for your car stop worrying about your car. Enjoy your vacation peacefully. Here is a solution for safe parking and cleaning your car when your car when you are away on vacation.

Taking very good care of your car, trust us. Contact: 96964767

MATRIMONIAL Kerala Christian Orthodox girl, 23 yrs, MBA, final year having family visa in Oman seeks suitable marriage proposal. Contact 99780896 Marriage makers widow/ divorce/ new for Indian Kerala & Indian Muslims. Contact: Whatsapp: 00968 98796982 & calling 98604960 Ezhavaboy age 28 height 174cm Star anizhamBTech working in Oman Seeks suitable alliance.

Contact 99430227

LOST Mohammad Bachu has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AD 6824584.

Finder please handover to ROP

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi

• Learn in two months • Satisfaction guaranteed

Tel: 95244310

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T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT Reputed mineral water company required the following HEAVY/LIGHT DUTY DRIVERS VAN SALESMAN with Omani driving license

SALES SUPERVISOR/SALES COͳORDINATOR with Omani driving license HELPERS ͳ Experience 3 to5 years

Contact - 90372638

Wanted Female Gynaecologist , Female GP and One Female Dental Assist and Female Lab Technician, Asst Pharmacist.

(From India or Pilipino ). With or without MOH License and Data Flow for Al Saadi Specilised Medical Centre, Musanna.

Contact # 91262604, Email ID : chillapalli76@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED SKILLED LABOUR Urgently required Sub contractors for building work at Mabellah.

Contact: 98113748 / 24422458 Email: kabnair@gmail.com Required Experienced Auto Electrician and Automobile Mechanic for a reputed service station.

Contact : 91232638 hashim@ramainvestment.com

SIT. WANTED ACCOUNTS Qualified CA, ACS, 10 +years Managerial experience, looking for immediate opening. working in Bank, Open to any GCC. Contact : +968-90788509, Email: kartirevy@gmail.com 12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. worked on Oracle / Orion / Tally/ Epromis, ERP s/w with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086

ACCOUNTS Required Accountant with minimum 5 years experience in construction field of accounts and who can independently handle. Oman experience will be plus point with release letter. Apply with bio data to Email: tec_oman@hotmail.com .

Contact: 99339661

Pakistani male, MBA finance, 10 years experience accounting, finance, business development, Administration & banking proficient in quick book & Microsoft suite, valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 94162125 Indian/MBA/male Chief Accountant 18Yrs Experience, MIS, C.Flow, Budgeting, ERP, Cost accounting &Liasing with auditors. NOC available.

Contact: 92254691/97826674 email: khader2305@gmail.com

Required Senior Accountant with 3 to 4 years experience for a reputed industrial group. Preference will be given to candidates experience in manufacturing filed of accounts and who can independently handle up to finalization.

Apply with CV to Email: hilaltrd@omantel.net.om or fax 24128111

MEDICAL GP, Pediatrician, Gynecologist, General Surgeon, Orthopaedician, Dentist, Pharmacist, urgently need to work in a polyclinic in Sur. candidates with MOH license preferred. Contact: 00968 - 24446454, 00968-91164581 (Sunday to Thursday 8.30 AM to 9 PM)

Accountant 2-3 years experience. Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh@ bearingcitysc.com.

Fax: 24509312

BEAUTY Urgently required a Gulf experienced Beautician (Lady) Contact: 99619409

ENG./TECHNICIAN CATERING Urgently required for a chain of restaurants” experienced drivers motor cycle for food delivery” with valid oman driving licence. attractive salary offered + commission on sales. mobile # 97677170, MAIL: md@royalgroupoman.com

DRIVER Urgently required a Driver with Oman license. Contact: 95729711 / 99364735 Wanted Driver.

Contact: 97165972 Wanted Driver for heavy (sewage vehicle) and light vehicle with valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 97991654 / 97991652 Kindly send CV at Email: construction@remasalseeb.com / remaschandran2020@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELP House maid required urgently for a Keralite family in AZAIBA. Contact 9675 8982 A full time living house maid required for an Indian family in Ghubra. Contact: 97335255

ENG./TECHNICIAN Urgently required: Senior Civil Engineer- with 10 years experience in building construction and to be valid in Oman for interview.

Interested candidates may fax to 00968-24605955 or email us to sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Wanted for immediate appointment at Salalah, Oman : Procurement and Trading/Sales Engineer, Electrical Engineer (3) Civil Engineer. Apply soon to vmwilly@yahoo.co.in / hr_oman1@yahoo.com Required Electrical Engineer bachelor degree in Electrical Engineering. Should have 5- 10 years in Oman experience in primary substations. Interested candidates send resume to hr@aljood-oman.com

Civil Engineer for Reputed firm in Oman for their Construction division for minimum 3 years of experience and valid driving license. Contact : 94148970 send resume to : raja.suguna1975@gmail.com Urgent requirement for building & roads construction company Civil Engineer 5 yrs exp Oman Fore man 5 yrs exp in Oman, Accountant 3 yrs exp., tally is advantage. Contact: 71100641 / 71100643 Required Indian candidate more 10 yrs experiences with attested Degree: 1 Civil Engineer.

2QS Engineer. 3 Purchase officer.

Email: joboman2017@gmail.com

Required licensed GP doctor, lab Technician, Pharmacist and Asst Pharmacist for a clinic in Salalah.

Contact: 93129219 & send CV to: clinicrecruitment2015@gmail.com Postgraduate Gynaecologist & GP with prometric dataflow required for Polyclinic Muscat. Attractive package. Kindly send your documents on dsm.reqruitment@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Urgent required : Store labors.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh @bearingcitysc.com, Fax: 24509312

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE Wanted Office clerk having two years experience. Contact: 92891888

SALES / MARKETING IT An IT company which develops websites and mobile apps, wanted a Business coordinator and Secretary with experience in media sales coordination and social media. Email CV to: hr@cityvago.com

MEDICAL Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 97700963, medicoport@gmail.com Fusion Medicare Polyclinic, Muscat wants GP, staff Nurse holding MOH license & Receptionist (Omani) Contact 97698004 email: medicare@fusionlogicoman.com Gynecologist, G.P, Staff Nurse, Lab technician, receptionist (Philippine) . Contact: 94562008 Email: halamedicalgroup@gmail. com Wanted Nurse for a dental centre, Al Mawale South. Interested candidate may contact 99759279 or send mail: drasyanaseem@gmail. com Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 92989109, medicoport@gmail.com

Urgent requirement Sales representatives in FEMCO LLC Eco friendly products. Graduate with minimum 2 years experience driving license is a must. Sent CV to: info@femcooman.com Required salesman, Tailor, Barber.

Contact: 96964767 Wanted Sales man logistics experienced sales person with D/L in freight forwarding, clearing, shipping, etc. Contact: 94007259 Email: smylackal@albadrigroup.com Required well experienced dynamic candidate in Real Estate Evaluation Field beside Building Management Techniques. Contact 91246444, rescooman@gmail.com IT Savvy digital Media Sales Executive for leading website & mobile app Development Company. Those with experience and own car preferred. Attractive terms.

Email latest CV with embedded photo to: jobs@interacoman.com

Finance Manager 22 years experienced Chartered Accountant and cost & management accountant looking for a suitable change.

Contact: 99884291 / 99741875 / 24601935 Indian female 23 yrs MBA, Finance and HR, currently on visit looking for suitable job. Contact: 93305002 / 99048224 Email: manjusharavindren@gmail.com Sir Lankan Senior Accountant having BBA, MBA, CA foundation with 6 years (2.5 years in Oman) of experience in Tally ERP, MYOB, Quick book, Oracle Oman D/L, release available.

Contact: 93598736 Omani female Accountant, 32 years, having 10 years exp in admin/accounts seeks suitable placement. Contact: 93259593 Indian female MBA, 3 years experience seeking suitable job.

Contact: 99257214 Indian male 24 yrs, MBA Graduate dual specialization (finance and marketing) & B.Com financé and taxation on visit visa immediately available. Contact: 99359904 Email: skadhilmog@gmail.com Pakistani male 23 years B.Com, 1 year experience of Accountant looking for a good job.

Contact : 79096696 MBA Finance 20 yrs of MNC (MEP) experience thorough knowledge in preparation of financials, budgeting, fore casting, audit, trade finances, cash flows, guarantees, income tax, project cost controls & ERP implementation with NOC seek suitable placement.

Contact 96280551 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com Indian male 8 years Accounts experience in Oman total 16 years experience can handle accounts upto finalization, good knowledge in Tally ERP/ Promis and MS Office have Oman driving license and NOC. Contact: 96937943 / 99043561, Email: ksunil2000@gmail.com Indian female Accountant B.Com tally, 10 years exp in Oman.

Contact: 91443796 Accountant Sri Lankan National Inter CA 3 yrs exp in finance ready to join immediately.

Contact: 79049355 Email: ahamedfiham777@gmail.com

Required sales and marketing executive for a 4-star hotel in muscat. candidate with excellent communication skills and having 3+ years experience need apply. driving license will be an advantage. email: hoteljobsmuscat@gmail.com

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH Oman D/L & 9 yrs experience, 8 yrs Oman & 1 yr India in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, independently handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement, srjob12@gmail.com

Indian Salesman indoor, knowledge in English & Arabic.

Contact: 93326636

Accountant Indian female B.Com, tally 5 years experience 2 years in Oman. Contact: 99139188

ACCOUNTS Indian male, B.Com, MBA in Finance, 4 yrs in Larsen & Tourbo, 26 yrs in Oman, English/ Arabic speaking with driving license. NOC available. Contact 95588565 Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: Anishkhan991867@gmail.

Com Mobile: +968 9565 9415 Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa. Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com Accountant Assistant B.Com Graduate with 2 yrs experience in Accounting. Contact: 94736742 Indian Accountant having M.Com with 7 years of experience up to finalization ready to joint immediate, Tally Peachtree, focus.

Contact: 91651695 Email: danishpa2005@gmail.com Indian female, 26 years,brought up in oman,M.COM(FINANCE) CA Foundation(CPT),CA INTER(DOING) presently on family visa seeking for immediate and suitable placement.

Contact -97174201/99663957 Email-anishasasi@gmail.com Accountant, 10 yrs experience, male tally, ERP, holding Oman driving license up to finalization accounts handling.

Contact 79002093 MBA Finance 20 yrs of MNC (MEP) experience thorough knowledge in preparation of financials, budgeting, fore casting, audit, trade finances, cash flows, guarantees, income tax, project (cost control) & ERP implementation with NOC seeks suitable placement. Contact 96280551 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394 Certified Public Accountant (Filipino, Male, 27-yrs-old) with four years experience, seeking suitable placement in accounting/audit, currently on visit. Contact; 94959606, email: czesar.42@gmail.com 7 Years experience as Financial Analyst, MBA in finance. Responsibilities- research contributor, financial statement analysis, generating MIS & efficiency report, managing TAT, business & clients.

On visit visa in Muscat.

Contact 90191628 / 96175780 Accountant Indian female, 2 years experience up to finalization in tally, B.Com Graduate, having valid D/L. Contact: 95373751 Indian ( M) MBA (f) more than 6 years of experience in accounts, proficiency in various A/C Software SAP (F1/CO) seeking for suitable placement. Contact: 95920740, mail: abdulhameed1527@gmail.com Indian female 28 yrs B.Com 4 yrs experience in MNC’s currently in Muscat seeking suitable placement in Finance / Admin.

Contact :94743790 Indian, Kerala Male B.COM & B.PE, Currently on Visit Visa. Looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store Keeper, Sales etc. Ready to join as early as possible.

Contact 96988923 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com 8 yrs exp. in Admin & Accounts (3 yrs in Oman), MBA, exp. in Tally ERP 9, Indian (F) seeks placement.

Contact 97243806 Accountant B.com Indian male 12 yrs exp seeks suitable job.NOC available . Contact : 91212471 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact 99284193 Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.Contact: 96976240

12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086 Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Indian female 26 yrs, MBA finance 2 yrs exp with MNC. Email: rilooozmali@gmail.com.

Contact : 90551366.

Indian (M), 31 yrs, M Com 9 yrs experience in Oman, looking for Manager or Executive position in Fin & Accounts, NOC Available.

Contact 968 96166178/ +919768537435: mohammednajeem@yahoo.com Accountant 8 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com

ADMIN Omani, male, 26 yrs experience looking for job in reputed Companies as PR, having experience at airport / Emigration, Ministries/ Manpower with Oman D/L. Contact 95445779 HR senior professional with 10 yrs (7 yrs in Dubai& Qatar) comprehensive exp in leading HR function (recruitment, training, performance mangt system, GCC Law, operations, benefits administration and strategy) available to join immediately.

Contact: 0097455375005(Qatar) Email: maliksha@gmail.com Young Indian male B.Sc, with NOC & valid Omani driving license & 15 years experience in GCC into HR & Admin, well versed with MS Office / Payroll seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 90622264 18 years experience in Oman with various industry in the field of administration, accounts sales with droving license looking for Senior level post only. Serious parties can Contact: 96331725 Email : sainmct@gmail.com Omani (M) Diploma in (Business Management) with 7 years experienced HR/ Admin / Purchase is looking for a suitable position in Oman. Contact: 99460164 Experienced HR – Executive 18 years experienced in IT & manufacturing industry presently working in well reputed manufacturing industry looking out for new opportunity. Contact: 91374217 Male 25 BBA, Admin officer 6 years experience in administration, accounts, Procurement, HR. Contact 95526871 Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have vocational M.B.A diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288 Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa, looking for suitable position.Contact 90196235 Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817 Egyptian woman resident, considerable experience in the Administration and Secretarial Executive for company. Contact : 97221126

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. Interior Decoration Drafting 2D/ 3D ,freelance / parttime. PH: 9018 9070 Email: mkoman@gmail.com

T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED An experienced Chartered Accountant

Male -FMCG DISTRIBUTION PROFESSIONAL ,MBA MARKETING ,10 years Managerial experience in GCC /OMAN looking for Divisional Manager position. NOC /DL available.

with over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

Contact -92405181

96491030

Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com Sudanese male Architect with 8 years of experience in design & and project management B.Sc, Master of Art in Architect and PMP holder. Contact: 93522498 / 93946515 Email: hesham.siddiq@gmail.com Architectural Draughts man (4 years experience), seeking job Contact: 91141879 Architecture Graduate in urban planning & architecture Indian male, 6 months experience in architecture & interior design NOC available. Contact: 96926903 Email: nikcherian93@gmail.com B. Arch Grad Indian female 24 yrs, highly skilled in designing looking for entry level architect positions currently Oman residence visa.

Contact : 95990255 Email: lubainank@gmail.com Architect Sudanese female 7 years experience design site work, interior design programs AutoCAD archicad.

Contact: 71190409 / 94078945

DRIVER Bangladeshi male light driver experience 16 years need job.

Contact: 99165961 Wanted driver, 6 years exp NOC available. Contact: 98903498 Driver with Omani license, 4 years exp. Contact: 93143027 Bangladeshi male 25, seeking for driver job with Oman valid license L/V. Contact: 93468454 Light driver 7 yrs exp, expert in Arabic & English language.

Contact: 92262680 Bangladeshi, 5 years exp in distribution/loading with D/L speaks Arabic & Hindi. Contact: 95865971 Light driver exp 4 years know English, Arabic, Hindi. #94928736 Driver with car available.

Contact: 98522914 Looking for job light driver 8 yrs in GCC country & speak Arabic good. Contact: 92806893 Looking for job light driver 2 yrs exp. Contact: 91659265 Driver with car. Contact: 95518612 Light driver looking for job, 5 years exp in Oman. Contact: 94208089 Looking for job. Contact 95371235 Indian Driver light need job.

Contact: 96693613 Heavy duty 4 years experience valid D/L, Oman. Contact: 98571413 / 95464051 Contact: Asheer Mohammed 94173085 18 yrs exp driver seeks job.

Contact: 95541940 Driver job wanted. # 96393082 Female family driver. #98044188 Driver looking for job. Contact: 98143386 / 92820309

Experienced IT Professional

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WITH NOC HR & ADMINISTRATION PROFESSIONAL With 14 years of Oman experience in Omanization, well familiar with Oman labor laws, employee relations / welfare, Liasion & Coordination, Strategic HR Planning, performance Appraisal & General Administration.

CONTACT: 90189412

Contact # 96654216

Contact - 96501189

BE (Electronics & Telecommunication), MBA (Marketing), Indian male, 30 yrs, 7 yrs experience in Oman in Sales, Marketing & Projects, looking for suitable placement, valid Oman D/L,

Hospitality professional Indian, currently working as General Manager in a leading Hotel in Muscat.

Quantity Surveyor, Sri

ENGG. / TECH./MECH.

NOC AVAILABLE Contact - 98518776

18+ years experience in Middle East & India. With release / NOC, seeking General Manager / Operations Managers jobs in Hospitality sector.

Lankan male, 25 yrs, B.Tech HND QS (Civil & MEP), AutoCAD with 5 yrs experience, looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 968 99589495, Email : mct2016job@gmail.com

Contact 92032632, haseebmursaleen@gmail.com

Looking for job exp having driving license. Contact: 97363138

British Citizen Senior Architect, Managing Director, Chief Architect 14 years experience, V Ray 3D, AutoCAD BOQ, master degree on architectural design. Contact: 92480035

Indian male, MBA Finance, B.Com & Computer Diploma looking for a suitable position Current position: Financial controller Experience : 15 years +

with over 20 years in Oman.

Can manage ERP systems, Hardware, Network, Wi-Fi and Biometric Devices.

NOC available.

DRIVER

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC.

SITUATION WANTED

Driver looking for job.# 95892363

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN Tunisian girl looking for job in media field, has 8years experience in publishing contact 97816917 AUTOCAD D MAN, 3 yr DCE, ITIi, experience in arch 2d,3d ph : 99506977 Skilled Indian Designer, 7 yrs experience in Oman designing & Execution of Work at site & workshop seeking senior placement. Contact: 93285996 Email: kw251287@gmail.com Interior design Engineer looking for a job, 6 years experience.

Contact: 91291502 Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR. PH : 92279784 Free lance / part time autocad works / make boq 2d /3d arch , structural, shop drawings interior drawings. Contact 97103168 mkgroupoman@gmail.com AUTOCAD freelance / part time , ARCH,MEP, 2D,3D, shop drawing, Bill of QTY PH : 97103168, mkgroupoman@gmail.com Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman. Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in consulting engineer with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 98484123 Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in building construction with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 93060770 MEP Coordinator, B. Tech. Mechanical, 36yrs Indian Male, 12yrs GCC experience, Oman D/L, NOC, immediate start, 97784946, sachkormat@live.com Experienced Purchase Officer 8+ in construction & Engineering industries ready to join with NOC. Contact: 95423692 Indian male 23 years, 1 year experience in tankage projects & process piping B.Tech in Mech, Engg.

Contact: 00968 71164978 Email: sushant297@gamil.com Iraqi male, Architect and Civil Engineer looking for job in design and manage and supervising and civil work in the site with 5 years experience in architect and civil field residing in Muscat. #71165357 Email: arch.marwan@yahoo.com 34 years, Pakistani with qualification of B.Tech pass Civil Engineering searching for job, total experience 13 years with 8 years in Oman, NOC available valid driving license. Contact : 96136226 Female Civil Engineer with 2 years Oman experience seeking suitable position. Release available. Contact: 97906991 Email: bhavya.bharathan@hotmail.com Indian male 28 years on visit seeking job Mechanical Engineer having 3 years experience.

Contact: 90198952 Diploma in Civil Engineer, 3 years Sudanese National, 4 years experience in construction sites in Oman. Contact: 91183608 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Contact : 97964862, Email :jossyabraham20@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male 26 years Mechanical Engineer with 2 yrs exp in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 91328079 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release. # 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Civil Engineer 1.6 yrs exp, having Omani D/L, looking for suitable position. NOC available. Contact – 92157694 / mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Diploma in Mechanical Engg, 10 years exp in steel fabrication site work with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 94696192 Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrs exp seeks suitable position in a reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 Diploma in Civil, 15 years experience in G.C.C searching suitable placement. Contact: 90247456 Civil Engineer Project Manager 14 years exp, 11 yrs in Oman PMP FDC Contract Management experience independently handling Civil works familiar with Oman regulating looking for senior level position, local release available.

Contact: 98826815

B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 24 with almost 1 year experience as Production Shift Engineer, has achieved training on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP.Currently in Oman on a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact: 95065955 email: mjs.jazeb@gmail.com B. Tech Mechanical HVAC site Engineer 4 years experience, currently on visit. #92837696 / mdabdulather@gmail.com An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Pakistani male Civil 3 years diploma 8 years experience as Site Engineer, valid Omani D/L immediate joining. Contact: 93294965 Indian male, 23 Yrs, B-Tech - Electrical & Electronics, having 2 Year of Work experience - looking for suitable placement. Currently in Oman on Visit. Contact: 96739500

Pakistani male 30, Diploma in Civil 12+ years exp 9 years in KSA looking job for Surveyor have visa with NOC driving license.

Contact: 97255028 Email: leo_khurais@yahoo.com

Indian male, BE (CSE) graduate, completed CCNA R& S course, process associate with 9 months experience on visit visa available immediately. Contact: 91295939 Email: rahman_nadhu05@gmail.com

Software Engineer looking for a job experience of 1 year related to software testing, documentation or development etc on visit, worked on Android, ASP .NET, C#, Java, Web development. #97236636 Email: hasanmir777@gmail.com

Electrical & Electronic Engineer MEP (Electrical Drafting and designing) Oman Driving license2 years experience - Mob 99759466 ; shyjalpk@gmail.com

Mechanical Engineer 27 yrs Indian male 4 yrs experience, certification ASNT, level 2, ASME 31.3 looking for suitable position. Contact: 98843671 Email: ifthikharahmedpo@hotmail.com Civil Engineer seeking job in Oman, 2 yrs experience in Pakistan with a consultant firm interested in consultant & contractor both. Contact: 968- 71152135 Email: omerraza102@gmail.com Indian male 8 years experience in electrical field with managerial, office, site supervision, fault debugging and exposure to electrical devices now in visiting visa. Contact: 90181566 Email: jittoandrewsnesto@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian male 22 yrs, currently on visit Oman knowledge of AutoCAD, 2D & 3D looking for job in various mechanical fields.

Contact: 00968 92113987 Email: mohammedthanzeel@gmail.com B.E Civil Engineer Indian male 26 years with 8+ years Indian experience in building construction & consulting field with AutoCAD, NOC available, looking for suitable position. Contact: 94656970 Civil Engineer (BE), Indian male 25 yrs with 2+ yrs experienced, certified in AutoCAD, Staad Pro, Revit looking for suitable position NOC available. Contact: 94973235 Email: merlinraj1710@gmail.com Indian male 22, BE Civil Engineer with few site and internship experiences looking for a suitable position in your firm. Got knowledge in (Primavera, Autocad, Staad pro).

Currently In visit visa. 98327644 or shakib842@gmail.com Engineering Graduate having 5+ years of exp as Marketing coordinator in advertisement company and 6 months as security system service engineer. # 79059197

B.Sc Civil Engineer: 5 years experience with having D/L. Contact: 93850440, Email: shahadat033@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Palestinian) 7 years experience looking for suitable placement specially at Muscat for Site or Consultant office with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 99174964 Diploma in Instrumentation and control, instrument technician 2 years experience male, 25, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 96946408 Email: anfeeranfu4@gmail.com 16 years experience in maintenance field with reputed groups in Oman seeking suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: 98525859 Indian male 27 years civil Engg (Project Coordinator) 6 years experience in Oman looking for suitable position NOC release available. Contact: 95071223 Electronics Engineer (BE) with 6 years experience in projects & maintenance of CCTV, Access control, fire alarm & PA systems, on visit. Contact: 99097485 Civil Eng Civil Draughtsman with diploma more than 8 yrs exp in Oman having valid D/L, NOC available. Contact: 96785348 / 93129804 Email: abbasimran786@hotmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Sc) with 5 years experienced (4.5 years in Oman) in construction & project management and seeking suitable job (NOC available). Contact: 99604563

Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable. Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Indian male 26 years currently on visit visa completed Aircraft Maintenance Engineering having 2.5 years of experience in the field of customer service and hospitality industry with a passion for the job, looking for opportunity.

Contact: 95775970 / 96784402 Email: sanoopck2255@gmail.com Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. Contact: 98921022 B.E Aeronautical Engineer, Indian male, having 4 years experience in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical design and production field, seeking for a suitable job and permanent replacement, currently in Oman on visit visa.

Contact: 00968 79062208 Email: amithmohanachary@gmail.com Sudanese Telecom Engineer (OSP & FITH) Manager four years experience in Oman with PMP Certificate. Contact: 93391008 Indian female 24 years, B. Tech and Diploma in Electronics & communication having 5 months bank experience looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa.

Contact: 90892393 / 92101035 Email: athirasuresh3@gmail.com B.E Mech Engineer, Indian male, having 2 yrs experience in Mechanical Engg seeks suitable position. Contact: 98827544 Email: sibi.a.b.varghese@gmail.com Mechanical/ Piping Engineer (B.Tech.) on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 94703350 mail: nadeembcoolboy@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Indian, 5 Years Experience, On visit visa looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 93042025 Indian male ITI 16 yrs of experience, seeking for suitable electrical & BMS foreman. Security system. Release letter available.

Contact: 94067480 Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) on visit visa looking for suitable job, has certificate of rewit MEP. Contact: 97923238 Email: vvikhil4@gmail.com

Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).Looking for a Suitable position. Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa. Contact: 92157694. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Mechanical Eng, 9 years experience MEP, 4 yrs in Oman.

Contact: 99487902 Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization. Contact 96570891 Site Supervisor 3 years Diploma Civil Engineering 7 years experience in Oman driving license.

Contact: 00968- 98524276 Email: murtaza06249@gmail.com Building Engineer, Senior level 9 yrs experience, Projects management, Coordination, Quantities Surveying Engineer contracts, civil software’s & AutoCAD looking for senior level position, NOC available. Contact: 79097475 Email: a-shaqfa@hotmail.com Indian male 24 ,B.E ( E.C.E ) graduate with 3 years of experience in the fields of BMS and Low current systems and has good knowledge about Electronic Security Systems, currently working in Oman, NOC Available. Contact: 94737033/ mohdmuhafez45@gmail.com Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961 Electrical Engineer, 24 yrs, Indian Male, Fresher, Training Undertaken in Electrical Draughtsman, Fire Alarm, Fire Fighting and Industrial Automation. Contact: 94989767, Email: Junaiz987@gmail.com Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact - 91176187 Email: syam036@gmail.com Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. # 99739415 / 92091528

Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283

Indian female 24. Masters in Computer science engineering, seeking job in colleges, schools and institutes. Having in good skill in teaching and advanced technologies. Contact : 93356858 Email id : annielino11@gmail.com

Mechanical Engineer with 4yrs exp in maintenance, design, contracting firms with GCC D / license Contact 95712436 & tejab17@gmail.com

An Indian Engineer is available for execution of pragmatic, need of the hour, worldwide relevant rare engg./ technical courses. # 9109 6940, kpopragmatic@gmail.com

B.Tech Civil Engineer 9 years experience in Oman, hotels, shopping malls high rise buildings, local NOC available. Contact: 00968- 97355400 Email: mianwaqas169@gmail.com

Mathematics Lecturer , Indian Female, M Sc Mathematics from a Prestigious University, B.Ed qualified, distinction holder with 6 yrs teaching experience in colleges.

Contact : 91360147.

Graduate Civil Engineer 20 yrs GCC experience with Omani D/L, seeking job NOC available.

Contact: 98621645 Email: imtiazcv@gmail.com Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784

Mechanical Engineer 14 years experience, 7 in Oman in water factories. Contact : 94488290

Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male, 30yrs. Experienced in Steam turbines and Thermal Power house seek employment.

Contact - +91 8130553668 or mohamedshah7@gmail.com

Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Ph number: 97964862, Email:jossyabraham20@gmail.com

Civil Engineer, young Indian having almost 2 years experience looking for a challenging position seeks suitable position in Oman/ GCC. Please contact 92718490, Email ID: uvais.pk82@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Indian male BA & LLB IATA cargo having 10 years experience as lawyer in Indian, currently on visit visa seeking placement. #99068790 Email: meltoma@gmail.com Indian male 31yrs old with hotel management degree, 03 yrs experience in F&B services at 5 star hotel Dubai, 05 yrs in American 06 star cruiseliner has butler. Has Oman driving license. Contact 99859150.

IT Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. #93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com

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T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 0, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED

IT

MISCELLANEOUS

Indian female- B.Tech with 3 Years of Experience as Software Engineer in an MNC looking for suitable placements. Please Contact through. Mob ; 95196243 Mail- hnambissan@gmail.com or

Indian male 40 years BSc degree, 16 yrs experience, 6 yrs in GCC in store keeping & material coordinating seeking suitable placement. Contact: 98966849

IT Engineer Graduated from Bangalore reputed university 1.5 yrs of of experience in software skilled in Php html CSS Jquery on visit visa. Contact: 91213391 IT Engineer male, 28 yrs, over 7 yrs experience with NOC, D/L available seeking placement in IT / Network / Telecom field. Contact: 93563297 Email: monuzv24@gmail.com Indian male, 27 years, bachelor in IT, having 5 years experience in PHP DEV., Networking, IT support, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98825722 Email: ajaybin.joy@gmail.com Mobile & laptop Technician Indian male having 2 years experience in India, currently on visit visa looking for suitable placement in Oman.

Contact: 71018270 / 92365310 / Email: shibinscaria1@gmail.com Indian female, 22- Science Graduate in IT with an exp. of few months in the related field seeks a suitable job in Muscat. Studied CCNA & Web design courses. Pursuing Masters in IT now. GSM: 94909075. Mail id: madhue009@gmail.com

MANAGER / SUPERVISOR Indian male MBA 14 yrs experience in business development seeking managerial roles driving license, NOC available. Contact: 93956234 Indian male (44), MBA, 19 yrs experience in Oman. Present Industry: Natural stones for construction. Responsibilities: Production, Trading, Business development and overall management. Looking for an immediate opening. Contact : 90992631 Purchase Manager (BE + MBA) having 13 yrs experience is available immediately with NOC. Contact at +968 97886616 or emailguptaashish1978@gmail.com General Manager IRAQI who is able to motivate a sales force and focus it on success. Adept at administrative organization utilizing talent and resource and meeting or exceeding all sales goals Experience 13 Years Inside- outside Oman, following activities:(construction – real estate - fit out - pipe lain - Infrastructure) Contact: - Oman 71146111

MEDICAL

Female, master in mass communication, B.Ed, experience in media channel and teaching PH : 99362024

Indian Female Nurse with MOH License, seeks suitable placement in Muscat, Contact: 95537685

An IT Engineer with 1.5 years having skills in ASP. Net, C#, SQL on visit visa looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: 968 90897242

Indian female Nurse 9 yrs experience / Gulf experience prometric 70% & dataflow completed looking for suitable job in Muscat. #: 96739298

IT Support Engineer, exp 3 years in Oman 3 and above in India, D/L & NOC. #93695268 / 91169659

Indian male Nurse 3 years experienced prometric dataflow completed, currently on visit visa wanted suitable placement.

Contact: 95314727

Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available. Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.# 98660672 IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759 Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. #93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com CFA level 1 cleared (pursuing level 2) MBA operations research, female, 5 yrs experience as Analyst, have a valid Oman driving license, looking for related openings.

Contact 95818892

LOGISTICS Experienced Indian Male seeking placement in “Stores & Logistics”.

Contact: 91927039

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Male, 25 years old, born and brought up in Oman B.COM(Finance),MBA(Marketing) with Valid Omani Driving License seeking suitable placement.

Contact 94170219/99621400 Email:mahimmatha2016@gmail.com 9 year experienced industrial painter and sand blaster with Oman driving licence. NOC available.

Seeks suitable placement.

Contact ZakeerHussain 96681934.

BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable placements. NOC available.

Contact: 92066 523 Indian male age 47, 15 years exp in store in charge in GCC, seeks suitable job. Contact: 90198237 Sudanese male bachelor geology and mining with 3 years experience in MUD logging and training in soil investigation. Contact 92956848 B.Com,IICL Certified Container Inspector(No.150850),Visit Visa, Six months experience, need placement. Phone 90880935,99023279, Email solexyesudas@gmail.com.

Veterinary Doctor: Indian Female looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96906534 /99014885, Email: monishmajeed@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SALES / MARKETING Indian male 28 yrs B.Com 5 yrs exp Admin / sales seeking job, NOC available. Contact: 96191521 Resident in Oman 18 years, 10 years experience in setup marketing plans and strategies, sales, import & logistics, procurement, Omani government tenders, organizing projects & events, import fireworks for festivals, NOC available, have car. Contact 94123939.

Email: 002015r@gmail.com Indian male B.Tech Auto mobile with MBA in marketing& HR, 3 yrs experience in service field, looking suitable job in Oman NOC available. Contact: 79080760 Email: althafhussain262@gmail.com Male, MBA Marketing, 21 years experience in Sales and Marketing, looking for suitable job. (in Muscat on visit visa) #96234986 Email: tanvirtufail@gmail.com BBA Graduate male Indian having valid Oman driving license looking for a job in the field of sales and marketing available immediately.

Contact: 24566124 / 92518257 Multinational FMGC experienced, qualified Sri Lankan lady seeking employment in Muscat. Marketing, Brands, Sales, Communication. Oman exp & DL available. # 98250829 Young man Graduated in Media and Communication and having a diploma in public relations looking for a suitable job in advertising agencies & media, corporate offices in Oman. Contact: 95636799 Email: medoo-299@hotmail.com Male, looking for sales & marketing job, Oman license holder.

Contact: 95642740, Email: shaijichakkara@gmail.com Indian male 1 yr exp in sales automotive (TBL) looking for best opportunity , NOC available. # 97793879 Email: shyampkn@gmail.com Indian male 29 seeking for store keeping and inventory controller job with 6 years exp at East Africa.

Contact: 99695002 Email: arafathw880i@gmail.com

Dr.Ayman Abduljalil Ali, E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706, Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com

An experienced person in joinery / fit out looking for working partner job. NOC & local release is available. Contact: 90872012

Filipino male Medical / Sales representative with 3 yrs experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Contact: 92610394

Indian male 26 yrs, Graduate, 3 years experience with Air India seeking suitable opportunity with reputed firms. Contact: 98847095

Iraqi Dentist female, MOH license seeks suitable job in clinic in Muscat. Contact 97891219

Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com

Indian female Dentist looking for suitable placement, dataflow completed.# 96410448 / 99606013

SKILLED LABOUR Indian male, 29 yrs, working as forklift operator in Oman, 3 yrs experience in Dubai and 4 yrs experience in Oman. Noc/ release available, having forklift operator license, looking for suitable placement. Contact 97833280

SALES / MARKETING Indian male 26, MBA in Marketing, 4 years experience in sales and marketing with valid GCC D/L Now in visiting visa looking for challenging opportunities.

Contact: 98666324 Email: ajithvjames@gmail.com Seeks suitable placement sales, marketing, and supervisor.

Contact: 98522914 15+ Experienced in Sales & Marketing, Modular Kitchen & Furniture with NOC & Valid License @ 96239126 Indian, 8 years experience in sales & marketing looking for suitable job.

NOC available. Contact: 99837447 Email: rhlboss86@gmail.com Indian male 27 yrs, Master of Tourism Management, 2 .5 yrs exp in India (Tour operation, Front Office, Ticketing, Reservation, Sales & Marketing) with computer skills looking suitable placement, now on visit visa. # 98837395/ 95213711 Indian male with 6 years experience in sales in oman. NOC available, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95364128 Indian male 27 years 5 years G.C.C experience in sales & marketing with valid Oman license holder, NOC is available, looking for suitable position. Contact: 94048369

Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control building. Cleaning tiles / Marble polishing monthly/ Yearly contracts available.

Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

Oil & gas experienced Indian lady with 6 years in sales & marketing to PDO and having valid Omani driving license.#96143430 / 99875919 Indian female 29 years Post Graduate with computer Knowledge 2 years of Oman experience in coordinator & 5 years of experience in customer service, client relation officer with excellent communication skill seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95337665 10+ Years Exp , 8 years In UAE , in Logistics ,Warehouse & Inventory looking for Job. Contact Number -00968 98096086 Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipments.

Looking for good replacement.

Contact – 92015894 /95774854 Indian male age 24, B.Com. having 2 year experience and currently in visit visa. Looking for suitable placement in Sales, Marketing & finance. Contact: 90766307 Email: shhaazz.007@gmail.com Indian Origin, Portuguese Nationality male MBA (Marketing) excellent English vast multi-tasking experience 29+ years in Admin HR/PR Logistics sales facility management with Oman driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94034168 Email: sheriagnes@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity.

NOC available. # 96001877 Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820

SITUATION WANTSIT.WANTED

WE SERVE OMAN

SALES / MARKETING Indian Male, 26 M.Com with 4 yrs of Experience in Accounting & Administration in a Financial Company in India, seeks suitable job, Currently in India. +918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com BBA Bachelor of business administration exp in custom clearance procedure, also done international logistics management & Nimb National Institute business management (US) certification all documentation work related logistics. contact – 91949050 / akram.chaush001@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Secretarial & Office: Indian(F),MBA in Finance, 2 years experience as Associate in Branch Operations (Record Keeping, Desk job)on family visa.Ph:93186865 ; email: ddthoppil@gmail.com A confident & more than 7 years experienced bilingual secretary/ admin officer with NOC looking for the right opening.

Contact 94742482 Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Contact 95244761 Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827 Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com

TOURS & TRAVELS Indian female 25 yrs, Bachelor in Travel & Tourism and 2 year exp in Oman as Travel consultant GDS-Sabre, Amdeus. NOC Available.

Contact- 95883404 Indian male 25 years on visit in Oman seeing job travel & tourism & ticketing staff having IATA, 3 years experience. Contact: 90105780

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Office boys, Cleaning Contracts, General cleaning etc.

Al Mudakhir National Est. LLC Contact : 94277020 Guaranteed water proofing at low rate gypsum false ceiling works, building maintenance works.

Contact: 93362587 MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. # 24793614/ 99314807 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 Maintenance, Sub contract work electrical work, plumbing work.

Contact: 97895741 We do building maintenance all kind of works.

Contact: 99247663

SITUATION WANTSIT.WANTED 21, Indian female B.com graduate on family visa looking for immediate and suitable placement. Holds valid Omani Driver’s license.

Contact: 97208869 Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job. Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com Filipino Graphic Designer / I.T. looking for a suitable job with 10 years experience. Very good in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Photography, Knowledge in CCTV & Access Controls.

Call 79042628.

Filipino Male, 28 years Old. Looking for job, Have experience in Rent a Car/ Cargo & Logistics / Real Estate/ Customer Care Executive / Sale Executive & Marketing/ Shop In- Charge. Hard working w/ good computer and communication skill. GSM: 97761075

Window unit & split unit A.C servicing & repairing - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area. Contact: 99557080 Split unit & widow unit A.C servicing & maintenance Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area. Contact 95323517 Split unit & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area. #96236476 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting,Plumbing,Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. Contact: 24810137, 99450130 We undertake new construction & maintenance & gypsum works.

Contact 92711506, ammarayyub@gmail.com Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center L.L.C. #99344723 Marble Crystallization & Grinding, Ocean Center L.L.C. #92705130 Affordable rates all types of curtain blind. #99539521/ 95615642 Carpet & Sofa Shampooing General Cleaning & Polishing Ocean Center L.L.C. #24707833 Painting & plumbing work.

Contact: 95963682 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver. # 99839898

WANTED Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778

TRANSPORTATION House shifting and transport.

Contact: 96737158 Transportation available Pick and drop Ruwi, Al Khuwair, Azaiba & Al Hail. Contact: 94297820 Transportation. Contact: 94087276

SITUATION WANTED BUSINESS

Transportation. Contact 91703829 Transportation. Contact: 98178135 Transportation. Contact 90558627 Transportation. Contact 94510847 Transportation. Contact 92015894

SITUATION WANTSIT.WANTED Post graduate in power systems (transmission &distribution) electrical engineer, experience in sub-station, MV, LV systems. power and oil & gas projects, having valid oman driving license, presently working in Muscat- NOC available.

Contact : 94669679 mail: prsabarish@gmail.com

LOOKING FOR SUB CONTRACTING JOBS An SME’S excellent grade construction company is looking for civil subcontracting jobs.

We are specialized in interlocking, block work, plaster work etc.

Contact 91433508, Email : business@aljammaza.com

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiďŹ eds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED DINING DELIGHTS

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

SITUATION WANTED TOURS

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. Contact: 98294551

We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

Enjoy Camping in Wahiba desert & all over Oman & tour.

Contact: 92226866